What Causes Frequent Migraine Headaches?

Frequent migraines may cause severe symptoms that can last for several days and cause difficulty with performing work, taking care of yourself and managing your household. Women are more likely than men to have frequent migraines, which may be caused by hormonal issues, certain types of foods and lifestyle factors that can be modified or controlled to reduce the frequency and duration of headaches.

PMS

• Changes in hormone levels before your period that are caused by premenstrual syndrome (PMS) may cause migraines that follow a monthly pattern.

Birth Control Pills

• Birth control pills may cause frequent or worse migraines in women who have a history of frequent or severe headaches.

Foods

• Certain foods and food additives such as monosodium glutamate (MSG), fermented foods such as cheese or bread and seasonings such as salt and spices may cause frequent migraines.

Caffeine

• Beverages and foods that have caffeine such as chocolate, coffee and soda may cause frequent migraines if you regularly consume these foods.

Not Eating

• Frequently skipping breakfast or other meals may cause you to have frequent migraines due to the lack of sugar and other nutrients in your brain.

Stress

• Emotional stress caused by your job, finances or family situations may trigger frequent migraines that negatively affect your job performance and personal relationships.

Physical Activity

• Intense physical activity such as long workouts or having sex may cause migraines that can be made worse by dehydration.