Did you know that stress is a trigger in approximately 70 percent of people who suffer from migraines?

A migraine is a headache that causes throbbing or pulsating pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. Some migraines are accompanied by aura which is a warning symptom that can cause a temporary visual disturbance.

The cause of migraines is not fully known, but we do know that stress is a trigger. Stress can trigger migraines by causing fluctuations in stress hormones like cortisol, which can disrupt the brain’s normal functioning, leading to changes in blood flow and neurotransmitter activity that are associated with migraine attacks. Consistent stress essentially “sensitizes” the brain making it more susceptible to migraines. According to Healthline, there is research to support migraines occurring after high levels of stress are reduced, this is called the “let-down effect.” For example, having an attack come on after a big test, completing a big project at work, or a significant life event.

Any person who suffers from migraines understands how debilitating, painful, and nauseating they can be. Some may even develop anxiety around them in fear of an attack coming on. If stress is a trigger, I said “a” because it’s not the only trigger then it’s a big reason for sufferers to start making stress reduction a regular practice. Actively managing stress can help prevent migraine attacks and improve a sufferer’s quality of life. Some examples of stress reduction include exercise, engage in sports or outdoor activities, relaxation techniques, music, journaling, drawing, cooking, reading, spending time with friends & family, and/or getting enough sleep.

With the demands of everyday life, it’s sometimes difficult to stop and find the time to destress but the truth is you can make the time to “stop” or the migraine will do that for you! At A Little Counseling, we help our clients reduce and learn how to live with stress and anxiety along with encouraging our clients to live a values-based lifestyle which can help individuals manage migraines. Stress is inevitable in life and will take you down if you don’t learn how to manage and live with it- give it a try and see what happens!