Did you know certain smells can trigger migraines? Some odors have been linked to migraines. A migraine is a severe headache that often presents itself as a throbbing pain that is felt on one side of the head, along with symptoms such as vomiting, and nausea. This pain can range from moderate to severe. Migraines can be treated with over-the-counter painkillers, but if you are someone that suffers from chronic migraines you should see a doctor, who may prescribe medication or help you to identify your migraine triggers.
Smells or odors are often triggers for migraine onset. Here are five common smells that can cause migraines
1. Cigarette smoke
Cigarettes contain nicotine which affects your brain by changing the size of blood vessels. This results in headaches. Cigarette smoke is bad for you for many reasons. It’s not like the risk of lung cancer wasn’t enough reason for you to avoid cigarette smoke. Also to be noted is that studies have shown that the smoke from cigarettes is linked to migraines. It has been proven that individuals who smoke have more frequent migraines than those who don’t. Also, you must note that second-hand cigarette smoke also causes migraines. Cigarette smoke can also result in an allergic reaction. The smoke can cause your nose and throat to become irritated and this will lead to headaches. It’s important to avoid smoking and second-hand smoke when you are prone to migraines
2. Food odors
Certain foods that have strong odors will trigger symptoms of migraines such as headache and nausea. Many individuals that experience migraines are sensitive to odors, one such common odor trigger is Food odors. Studies show that when the smells of onion and garlic are inhaled, they usually trigger headaches in sufferers of migraines. Odors from fatty foods have also been linked to causing migraines. You can use peppermint to help alleviate these symptoms. All you have to do is inhale the scent of the peppermint
3. Perfumes
Scientists say perfumes trigger migraines because they affect the brain’s nervous system that controls head pain. Perfumes result in the swelling and dilating of blood vessels, thus, causing headaches. Perfumes are great to wear as they leave you smelling good. However, perfumes are now being made with more chemicals than natural ingredients. These chemicals can become triggers when you inhale them. If you suffer from migraines you should try to find an alternative to using perfumes to avoid triggering symptoms.
4. Cleaning chemicals
The strong smell of cleaning chemicals and their ingredients typically cause headaches for people with migraines because they affect blood vessels. Most chemicals used for cleaning contain Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). These gases are released when cleaning chemicals are used. VOCs are found in solvents, detergents, and special household solutions. People that suffer from migraines are extremely sensitive to smells, especially strong odors. The strong fumes given off by cleaning chemicals can also cause chronic migraines to occur. When inhaled, the fumes from cleaning chemicals affect the brain. Like perfume scents, they cause blood vessels to swell and dilate. They also impact your nervous system. You should avoid inhaling these chemicals
5. Candles or air fresheners
Candles, air fresheners, and other fragrances have been linked to causing headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. Scented wax and air fresheners are great for making our homes and other spaces smell good. However, people with migraines may not be able to enjoy these scents. This is because these are proven triggers for migraine symptoms. Other scent producing products and air fresheners have chemicals that result in headaches when inhaled. If you struggle with migraines you should avoid using fragrances