Best Health Magazine - How to control migraines

Millions of Canadians suffer from migraines—but there is relief. Here's what you need to know about this painful condition and how to keep it under control. Migraine patients report many triggers including stress, sleep deprivation and irregular food intake (skipping meals). Many female migraine sufferers will have menstrual-related migraines, which may last longer at higher intensity and can be more difficult to treat.

According to Dr. Michel Aubé, senior neurologist at the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, and associate professor in the faculty of medicine at McGill University, many patients report certain foods, such as aged cheese and alcohol (red wine especially), bring on an attack. They are advised to avoid any personal triggers. Becker’s research team in Alberta has found that changes in outdoor temperature can also be a trigger—e.g., Calgary’s sudden mild weather pattern (a chinook).