Brain & nervous systemMigraine

7 unexpected migraine triggers

See if you recognize any of these unusual triggers.

Jan, 2026
LearnNeurologyMigraine7 unexpected migraine triggers
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Help for Migraines

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Migraines affect roughly 12 percent of people in the US, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. You’re probably familiar with the head-pounding, life-halting pain of a migraine, but do you know its triggers? Everything from the day of the week to the weather forecast (beware of lightning!) and even sex can trigger a migraine. Learn about some surprising triggers you may have overlooked, as well as how you can prevent migraine pain.

Written byTaylor Dahl.
Medically reviewed byMark Arredondo, MD.December, 2023

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