Migraines can come at the worst of times. While driving, in class, before a big interview, anywhere really. There never seems to be a convenient time for a migraine.

First, we must define what a migraine is. According to Mirraim-Webster, migraines are a “condition marked by recurring moderate to severe headache with throbbing pain that usually lasts from four hours to three days, typically begins on one side of the head but may spread to both sides, is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound, and is sometimes preceded by an aura and is often followed by fatigue.”

In short, it’s a debilitating headache that can cause sensitivity to lights and sound. Migraines can even force people to remain bed ridden, as sometimes the aura stops their vision entirely.

How can you prevent a migraine though?

There is a general lack of understanding when it comes to migraines, but there are believed to be several types of triggers, according to the Mayo Clinic. Triggers may vary from person to person. 

These can be

• Stress
• Changes in diet
• Too much or too little caffeine
• Changes to sleep schedule
• Alcohol
• Genetics
• Environmental factors, such as weather and barometric pressure
• Hormonal changes
• Intense physical activities

The best way to prevent migraines is to address several of these potential triggers. This could include having a stable diet and sleep schedule, reducing alcohol intake, reducing stress or performing less strenuous activities. 

However, migraines are not always preventable. Once you have a migraine, the only options are to let it run it’s course, or try to treat it.