A silent migraine is a form of migraine without the throbbing headache. This migraine has various symptoms that are similar to a full-blown migraine headache including the visual aura along with the auditory and speech issues. Since the headache is absent, it is often mistaken as other conditions such as a stroke.
Always bear in mind that a silent migraine can be instigated by various factors including certain foods. Proper identification and elimination of the offending foods can provide long-term relief from future migraine attacks.
Pickles, legumes and fruits
Legumes can be considered as one of the culprits for triggering silent migraines. Certain beans such as fava, garbanzo, Italian green beans, navy, pole, pinto and Lima can trigger migraines. In addition, fermented and pickled foods might also start problems as well. The individual should note down any adverse reactions on the body after consuming kimchi, raw garlic, sauerkraut, pickles, onions and olives.
There are also fruits that are oftentimes involved in triggering silent migraine attacks. These include prunes, figs, avocados, papayas and overripe bananas.
Caffeine and alcoholic beverages
Alcoholic beverages in all forms are linked with migraine headaches but red wine stands out from the rest. It is vital to test each type of alcoholic beverage by consuming one kind at a time to check the results. In some individuals, there is only one type that triggers the silent migraines or all alcoholic beverages must be avoided.
Some individuals end up with a silent migraine attack after consuming caffeinated beverages, but these can actually relieve an attack in some. If the individual consumes large amounts of coffee or caffeinated soda, he/she might end up with headaches when the intake is stopped. If possible, the consumption must be reduced slowly over time to prevent caffeine headaches. Take note of the silent migraine symptoms occur or only a simple tension headache.
Chocolate
Chocolate is a common trigger for some individuals who suffer from silent migraines. Remember that chocolate is packed with various chemicals where some can soothe the headache and others simply worsen the pain. In case chocolate is a trigger for the migraine attacks, it should be avoided. The individual can also test various types of chocolate to determine which is less stimulating.
Aged cheese
Aged cheeses are considered as the most reactive trigger for any type of migraine headache. The older the cheese, the more problematic it can be for those who are prone to migraine attacks.
Cheese contains tyramine which is a chemical linked with the occurrence of migraines. If a particular cheese has been aged for a longer period, there is more tyrosine present. Tyrosine might be a contributing factor that increases the blood pressure. The potential cheeses to avoid include blue, Gouda, Brie, Stilton, brick, Gruyere, Camembert, cheddar, Romano, provolone and Parmesan. Cheese that contain monosodium glutamate (MSG) such as muenster, Roquefort, feta and other processed cheese slices can also trigger symptoms.