Self Help

A flickering fluorescent lighting can be a migraine trigger. Change the ballast in the fixture to eliminate the flickering. But if you still find fluorescent lighting to be troublesome, turn off the overheads and illuminate your desk or workstation with a conventional table lamp.

If you are sensitive to glare, remember that glare can occur even on a cloudy day, especially if there is snow on the ground or if you are near the water. Always remember to carry sunglasses with you everywhere you go, and remember to put them on before you step out into the sunshine.

Alternating patterns of light and shade such as sunlight shining through trees can also trigger a migraine, as can strobe or randomly flashing lights. Avoid these triggers as much as possible. Avoid driving at sunset or sunrise and at night so you won’t be confronted with the glare of oncoming headlights.

Sound also triggers migraines. When sound is a trigger, there usually has to be a fairly significant amount of noise, either a very loud sound or a continuous disorganized sound, such as a rock concert.

Wear earplugs and carry them with you at all times. If you work in a noisy environment and do not need to interact with others or the public, headphones can provide you with soothing sounds.