Top 10 Migraine Triggers & How to Avoid Them – Advice from Dr. Kunal Bahrani
Migraines are more than just headaches—they are complex neurological conditions that can disrupt daily life with intense pain, nausea, light sensitivity, and more. Recognizing the underlying triggers can help patients manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. Dr. Kunal Bahrani, Director & Head of Neurology at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad, is widely recognized as the best migraine doctor in Faridabad. With years of experience treating patients with neurological disorders, he shares valuable insights into the most common migraine triggers and how to avoid them.
What Is a Migraine?
A migraine is a neurological disorder characterized by recurring headaches of varying intensity, often accompanied by symptoms such as:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Visual disturbances (auras)
- Fatigue and dizziness
According to Dr. Bahrani, migraine triggers vary from person to person, but identifying and avoiding them can significantly improve quality of life.
Top 10 Migraine Triggers and How to Avoid Them
- Stress
One of the most common triggers, stress causes hormonal changes that may lead to migraines.
How to avoid it:
- Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing.
- Maintain a consistent daily routine.
- Take breaks during work to avoid mental fatigue.
“Stress is an invisible enemy of neurological health. Managing it proactively is key,” says Dr. Kunal Bahrani.
- Hormonal Changes in Women
Fluctuations in estrogen levels—especially around menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause—can trigger migraines.
How to avoid it:
- Track hormonal cycles to anticipate migraines.
- Discuss preventive treatment options with your neurologist.
- Consider hormone-stabilizing medications if needed.
- Skipping Meals
Irregular eating patterns or fasting can lead to low blood sugar levels, which can trigger migraines.
How to avoid it:
- Eat regular, balanced meals throughout the day.
- Keep healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, or whole grains handy.
- Avoid excessive caffeine or sugar, which can cause crashes.
- Certain Foods and Beverages
Some common culprits include:
- Aged cheeses
- Processed meats
- Chocolates
- Alcohol (especially red wine)
- MSG and artificial sweeteners
How to avoid it:
- Keep a food diary to track what may be causing your migraines.
- Avoid foods high in preservatives and additives.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Sleep Disturbances
Both lack of sleep and excessive sleep can trigger migraines.
How to avoid it:
- Establish a consistent sleep schedule.
- Avoid screens before bedtime to improve sleep quality.
- Create a restful sleep environment with proper lighting and noise control.
- Dehydration
Even mild dehydration can lead to headaches or trigger a full-blown migraine.
How to avoid it:
- Aim to drink 8–10 glasses of water daily.
- Carry a water bottle if you’re frequently on the go.
- Reduce intake of diuretics like caffeine and alc
- Weather Changes
Sudden changes in temperature, humidity, or barometric pressure can affect brain chemistry and trigger migraines.
How to avoid it:
- Stay indoors during extreme weather conditions.
- Use a humidifier or air conditioner to maintain a stable environment.
- Monitor weather patterns and plan accordingly.
- Strong Odors and Bright Lights
Perfumes, smoke, or glaring lights can stimulate the nervous system and induce a migraine.
How to avoid it:
- Avoid exposure to known irritants.
- Wear sunglasses in bright light or while driving.
- Use fragrance-free household products.
- Medications
Some medications, especially those that affect blood vessels, can lead to migraines as a side effect.
How to avoid it:
- Consult with your neurologist before starting any new medication.
- Never self-medicate or abruptly stop prescribed treatments.
- Keep a record of all medicines and their effects on your body.
- Sensory Overload
Loud noises, crowded places, or excessive screen time can overwhelm the senses and spark a migraine.
How to avoid it:
- Limit screen time and take regular breaks.
- Use noise-cancelling headphones in loud environments.
- Practice mindfulness to stay grounded in stimulating settings.
Managing Migraines: Dr. Kunal Bahrani’s Expert Advice
Dr. Bahrani emphasizes a personalized treatment approach to managing migraines. Every patient is different, and so are their triggers. At Marengo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad, patients benefit from a multidisciplinary approach involving neurology, nutrition, psychology, and lifestyle management.
“Migraine isn’t just about the headache—it’s about the person behind it. At our hospital, we focus on holistic healing that empowers patients to take control of their lives,” shares Dr. Bahrani.
When to See a Migraine Specialist
If your headaches are frequent, severe, or affect your daily functioning, it’s time to seek professional help. Symptoms that should prompt a visit to a neurologist include:
- Headaches that worsen over time
- Headaches accompanied by visual or speech disturbances
- Frequent use of over-the-counter painkillers
- Headaches after a head injury
- Family history of migraines
Why Choose Dr. Kunal Bahrani – Best Migraine Doctor in Faridabad
- Director & Head, Neurology at Marengo Asia Hospitals
- Over a decade of experience treating complex neurological disorders
- Expert in migraine diagnosis, management, and preventive therapy
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient
- Advanced diagnostic tools and state-of-the-art infrastructure
Final Thoughts
Migraines can be debilitating, but they are manageable with the right medical support and lifestyle changes. Identifying triggers and avoiding them can go a long way in improving your quality of life.
If you’re struggling with migraine, trust your care with Dr. Kunal Bahrani, the best neurologist and migraine doctor in Faridabad. His compassionate approach, expert knowledge, and commitment to neurological health have helped countless patients regain control over their lives.
For consultations, visit Dr. Kunal Bahrani at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad.