Migraines are caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors affecting the brain and nervous system. Key causes and triggers include:

• Genetics: Migraines often run in families, suggesting a hereditary component. Certain genes have been linked to migraines, increasing susceptibility

• Brain activity: Migraines may involve abnormal electrical or chemical waves spreading across the brain, especially in areas processing sensory signals, which can cause symptoms like aura

• Serotonin levels: Changes in serotonin, a chemical that affects blood vessels, can cause blood vessels to constrict or dilate, contributing to migraine pain

• Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormones, especially in women during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, are common migraine triggers

• Environmental triggers: Bright or flickering lights, loud noises, strong smells, weather changes (barometric pressure, temperature), and high altitudes can provoke migraines

• Diet and hydration: Certain foods and drinks such as alcohol (especially red wine), caffeine, chocolate, processed meats, artificial sweeteners, and additives like MSG and tyramine may trigger migraines. Skipping meals or dehydration also increases risk

• Stress and emotional factors: Stress, anxiety, depression, excitement, and emotional tension are significant triggers. Both the onset of stress and its relief can provoke attacks

• Sleep patterns: Both too little and too much sleep, irregular sleep schedules, or jet lag can trigger migraines

• Physical factors: Poor posture, neck and shoulder tension, physical overexertion, and certain medications (e.g., hormone replacement therapy, birth control pills, sleeping pills) can contribute

• Sensory stimuli: Exposure to flickering screens, bright sunlight, loud noises, and strong odors can initiate migraine attacks

In summary, migraines result from complex interactions of genetic predisposition and various triggers related to lifestyle, environment, and physiological changes. Identifying and managing individual triggers can help reduce migraine frequency and severity