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3 Sneaky Health Issues That Could Cause Migraines

3 Sneaky Health Issues that Could Cause Migraines

If you’re one of the 36 million Americans who experience migraines, you know how intensely painful they are. The causes of a migraine may differ from person to person, but if you notice that yours follow a pattern, they may be giving you useful clues about your overall health.

Symptoms and Demographics

Migraine symptoms can include throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue and sensitivity to light. Symptoms can last up to a few days, and can be so severe that some people are forced to stay in bed.

People can get migraines at any age, with some beginning to experience them during childhood or adolescence. Migraines can also run in families, and women are three times more likely than males to experience them.

Food Allergies and Sensitivities

If you notice that you develop migraines after eating certain foods, you may have food sensitivity or allergy. Some common migraine triggers are wheat, dairy, nuts and citrus fruits.

If you think a certain food might be causing your migraines, try temporarily not eating it for a couple of weeks and see how you feel. You can also schedule an appointment for an allergy test to see how your body responds to certain foods.

Learn more about managing health conditions.*

Hormonal Imbalance

Changes in hormones can also contribute to migraine headaches. Some women experience the symptoms just before or during their periods or menopause.

If you notice your migraines follow a pattern, mention this to your doctor. He or she can check the balance of common hormones like estrogen and progesterone and your thyroid levels to rule out any problems.

Stress Overload

Stress comes in many forms, from emotional (such as coping with a difficult relationship) to physical (lack of sleep). It correlates with many illnesses and symptoms, including migraine headaches. If you reflect back on your history of migraines, you might realize that many of your headaches started during or after a bout of intense stress.

Treatments for stress-induced migraines include activities such as deep breathing, exercise, time management, reducing contact with challenging friends, and changing careers.

What to Do Next

Even if you have suffered from migraines for a long time, you can still find relief. Make an appointment with a doctor who is experienced in treating migraine headaches.

Before your appointment, create a journal of your migraine history, jotting down a brief overview of your recent migraines—how long they lasted, the symptoms you experienced and any other relevant details that you’d like to share with you’re your doctor.

Advice or recommendations are for informational or educational purposes only, not a substitute for a visit or consultation with your doctor.

Judy Wilson

Judy Wilson is a writer and editor specializing in varied content areas, including health, wellness, food, cooking and nutrition. She enjoys educating others and enabling them to lead fulfilling lives of vibrant health. You can follow Judy on Twitter @EvergreenWords.

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Get more information about specific health terms, topics and conditions to better manage your health on bcbst.com. BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee members can access wellness-related discounts on fitness products, gym memberships, healthy eating and more through Blue365®. BCBST members can also find tools and resources to help improve health and well-being by logging into BlueAccess and going to the Managing Your Health tab.

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Judy Wilson is a writer and editor specializing in varied content areas, including health, wellness, food, cooking and nutrition. She enjoys educating others and enabling them to lead fulfilling lives of vibrant health. You can follow Judy on Twitter @EvergreenWords.

WellTuned provides inspiration and practical advice for healthy living.
WellTuned does not offer medical advice. Any personal health questions should be addressed to your doctor.

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