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At Tria Health, our pharmacists are here for you! They are always happy to answer any of your medication-related questions. For September, we’ve compiled some of our more popular migraine questions, along with our pharmacists’ answers.
What are the most common migraine triggers?
Emotional Stress
Not Eating
Sleep Disturbances
Obesity
Some foods such as: wine, aspartame, and monosodium glutamate (MSGs)
Certain medications such as nitrates (used for chest pain)
Unmodifiable triggers like menstruation, weather changes, neck pain, certain odors or visual stimuli
What can worsen migraines?
Rapid head movements like sneezing or turning you head away quickly, bright lights, loud sounds, straining at stool, and physical exertion can all worsen migraines.
How do I cope with my migraine triggers?
As most triggers cannot be completely avoided, coping with known triggers is an important strategy in migraine relief. A staggering 80% of people with migraines say emotional stress is a trigger, but no one is immune to it. Check these tips out for how to manage your stress:
Meditate for 15 Minutes
Take a Break & Breathe Deeply
Laugh out Loud
Listen to Music
Get Moving
Keep a Journal
I don’t want to take a medicine, what can I do instead?
Relaxation Training
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Physical therapy can be helpful for patients who have muscle tension leading up to a migraine
There is no good clinical data to recommend hypnosis, acupuncture, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), or chiropractic or osteopathic care, but some people find these methods appealing.
Dealing with migraines can have a definite impact on your lifestyle. Having a better understanding of what triggers migraines and how to cope can help.
If you have any additional questions regarding your medications, reach out to the
Tria Health Help Desk: 1.888.799.8742