Common Odors That Trigger Migraines
A migraine is a neurological condition that is frequently denoted with intense, debilitating headaches. Other symptoms of migraine may include vomiting, nausea, numbness, and tingling. Migraines are known to be triggered by factors such as caffeine, weather, foods, stress, dehydration, alcohol, lights, sounds, and smells. This heightened sensitivity, or aversion to smells, is known as osmophobia. Research has linked various common odors, some found in everyday household items, to migraine attacks. These include: 1. Scents and perfumes Although the use of perfumes is commonplace, products like feminine scents, deodorants, essences, aftershave, incense, candles, fresh flowers, air-fresheners, dried flowers, lavender, and vanillin, have been reported as sources of migraines. It has been theorized that because these fragrances rely more on chemical compounds than on natural oils, the scent itself is not the cause. Instead, the chemical construction and continuous exposure to the product may be the root of the migraines. 2. Smoke Smoke from cigarettes and cigars have also been identified as causes of headaches. Smoking and inhaling secondhand smoke exposes the brain to nicotine, which changes the size of blood vessels in the brain, possibly causing a headache. Smoke also causes headaches when the smoke irritates the nose and throat or causes an allergic reaction.