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Stress and Migraines: The Ultimate Trigger

Posted by Migraine Relief Center on Oct 18, 2013 7:00:00 AM

Most people who suffer from migraines have learned to identify their triggers so that they can avoid the things that can cause the onset of a migraine. Unfortunately, stress is a trigger for many people, and it cannot be completely avoided. If you suffer from stress migraines, you must find ways to adapt to the changes in your life without being completely sidelined with a migraine attack. Stress_Migraine

What is a Stress Migraine?

A stress migraine is a severe headache that is caused by stress or anxiety. Research indicates that major life changes, such as having a baby or starting a new job, is not the types of stress that cause migraines. It is the day-to-day stress in life that can cause a pounding headache, nausea, vomiting and other migraine symptoms. Despite constant stress from daily living, you can find techniques and strategies that will help you continue to enjoy life without a migraine.

Healthy Diet

An important part of your overall health comes from dieting factors. A healthy diet will reduce migraines for migraine sufferers. You should focus your diet on foods that are low in fat, including lean meats, grains, fruits and vegetables. You will have more energy, which will help you face each day and the stress that you experience. If you have food triggers, you should avoid those completely so that they do not add to the stress that you are experiencing, which may compound your migraine attack.

Physical Activity

While it is nearly impossible to participate in physical activity when you have a migraine, regular exercise can help prevent migraine attacks. Physical activity helps the body cope with stress, and it can also promote healing. You do not have to do anything strenuous in order to enjoy the migraine-fighting benefits of exercise. Simply do moderate exercise for 30 minutes a day. Whether you work in the garden, walk or play tag with your children, your higher levels of activity will help you decompress and fight your worries and anxiety.

Relaxation

If you want to learn to manage your stress to reduce your migraines and their intensity, try some relaxation techniques. You should take a few minutes each day to visualize the positive things that are happening in your life. You may also want to include some deep breathing exercises and yoga so that you can fully benefit from stress reduction. Make sure that you get plenty of sleep each night so that your body has a chance to recover and refresh itself before you tackle the next day.

Stress migraines can be difficult to deal with since you cannot completely avoid stress in your life. By making a few lifestyle changes and finding the techniques that work for you, you can cope with your stress levels while enjoying the benefits of healthy living.

*Image courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net

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Topics: Causes

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