Trigger factors, whilst they do not ‘cause’ migraine, can precipitate an attack. While some people may be very sensitive to specific triggers, other may be vulnerable only when several triggers combine at once.

Common triggers are: 

• Stress
• Food and alcohol
• Hormonal changes 
• Too much/little sleep
• Change of routine 
• Too much/little exercise 
• Meteorological or environmental triggers
• Flicker from TV/computer screens
• Poor posture 

Although there is no cure, migraine can be managed by tracking personal patterns in a migraine diary, learning the advance warning signs and discovering how to proactively defend against an attack.

Despite the massive impact that migraine can have on job satisfaction, not everyone is offered treatment or coping techniques. For many people, stress can be a trigger factor and there are many potential triggers to be found in the workplace, including:

• Long periods spent in front of a computer screen
• Delayed meals or irregular eating patterns
• Poor posture at an office desk 
• Lack of exercise 
• Loud noise or bright lights 
• Dehydration 
• Strong smells 
• Air conditioning/lack of fresh air 

With the right information, support and treatment, the majority of those suffering from a migraine can bring their condition under control, reducing the frequency and severity of attacks. Medications, dietary changes, relaxation and biofeedback can reduce attacks.  

Ideally employers and employees will work together in tackling the problem of migraine in the workplace. Employers are increasingly aware of the problems and benefits of properly managing migraine in the workplace.

Minor adjustments to the work environment can have a dramatic impact, especially for sufferers in terms of preventing and aborting an attack. Employers should, as much as possible:

• Install and maintain a good lighting system which imitates natural daylight closely 
• Ensure that the noise levels from machinery are kept to a minimum
• Design ergonomic workstations 
• Be conscious of employee stress levels 
• Supply readily accessible drinking water 
• Encourage employees to develop a contingency plan for when a migraine strikes at work
• Show general consideration in this area to send a positive signal to all staff 
• Organise an outreach day for employees
• Encourage a health work/life balance culture 
• Maintain efficient extractors if strong fumes or smells are produced 
• Consider allowing flexible working hours 
• Provide a rest room 
• Provide stress management training 

While larger companies can afford to make many adjustments, smaller businesses can still implement small changes that can make the difference to their staff being fully able to partake in their workplace. 

Benefits to employees

• Increased job satisfaction 
• Better health and well-being 
• Better social and family life

Benefits to employers

• Increased productivity 
• Less absenteeism 
• Positive workplace environment