Peanut butter can trigger migraines.

Migraines are a type of headache that can cause moderate to severe pain as well as symptoms including nausea and sensitivity to light, sound and smells.

There is a huge amount of information about migraines available online, but not all of it is accurate.

As we approach Migraine Awareness Week later this month, Phil Day, Superintendent Pharmacist at Pharmacy2U, debunks myths about migraine triggers and treatments.

Triggers

Smells

While everyone has different triggers, many people with migraines experience a heightened sensitivity to smells, meaning certain scents and odours can set them off.

“Odours like car exhaust fumes, cleaning products, and perfume are common triggers that can lead to migraines and associated nausea and/or vomiting,” Phil reveals. “It’s not fully understood why some individuals are more sensitive to these smells, but if you’re prone to migraines, strong odours are something to watch out for.”

Peanut butter

Peanut butter can be an unexpected trigger for some people who experience migraines.

The expert explains, “This is because it contains phenylalanine, an amino acid that can affect blood vessels. If you notice that you consistently get a headache a few hours after eating peanut butter, this ingredient might be a trigger you need to avoid.”

Weather changes

As autumn approaches in the northern hemisphere, some of us may be struggling with migraines.

“For example, fluctuations in barometric pressure – whether from high humidity or dry air – can create pressure in the sinuses and lead to a chemical imbalance in the brain,” he says. “This can trigger migraines, particularly in those who are sensitive to these shifts.”

Treatments

Soaking feet in hot water

Soaking your feet in hot water can give you temporary pain relief, but it’s not a cure.

“The heat may help by relaxing muscles and dilating blood vessels in the feet, which could ease pressure on the blood vessels that cause migraines,” the pharmacist states. “While this method might offer temporary relief for some, there is no scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness and more research is needed.”

Eating a whole lemon

While some believe that eating a lemon can reduce your migraine symptoms, it could actually do the opposite.

“While there isn’t scientific evidence on the use of lemons for migraines, this approach could exacerbate symptoms. Lemons contain tyramine, which can trigger headaches in some people by increasing noradrenaline levels and blood pressure,” he warns.

Daith piercing

According to the expert, there is no evidence to support the claim that getting the cartilage in your ear pierced can help relieve migraines.

“Daith piercings have gained popularity as a potential migraine treatment due to claims that they might affect a branch of the vagus nerve, similar to acupuncture,” Phil explains. “However, there is no evidence that the piercing itself provides significant relief. The perceived benefit may be due to the placebo effect, where improvement is felt because one believes the treatment will work.”