Tips to help you avoid migraines

While migraines can be triggered by a variety of factors, if you suffer from migraines, there are some things you can do that may help you avoid getting them.

Lifestyle tips

• Eat regular meals and preferably at the same time each day.

• Have snacks when necessary or small frequent meals more often.

• Be active daily to reduce stress levels and keep fit.

• Avoid getting too hungry by missing meals: be prepared by carrying snacks to nibble on if your next meal is some time away.

• Keep well hydrated: Carry water with you at work or during exercise.

• Alcohol is a stimulant. If you are thirsty, make sure you quench your thirst by drinking water first then enjoy your alcoholic drink by sipping it slowly.

• Avoid high-sugar foods, particularly on an empty stomach.

• Try massage or physiotherapy to help with tension, particularly for the head and neck area. Some people report help from acupuncture.

• Avoid sleeping in for too long in a stuffy room.

• Plan travelling with children to avoid the heat of the day and their sitting in the back of the car.

• Be wary of constipation and diarrhoea that could warn of an imminent migraine.

Thanks to Annette Hallam, National Director of New Zealand Migraine Sufferers Support Group for her advice and assistance in reviewing the contents of this article.