Do you ever wonder why certain smells trigger migraines or headaches? Those who suffer from headaches can be extra sensitive to triggers such as smells due to increased activation of specific scent and pain receptors in the brain. This sensitivity can be frustrating and disrupt your daily life. Let’s take a closer look at why these common smells can cause or trigger migraines, and how to treat migraines and headaches triggered by these common scent offenders:

1. Smoke
Smoke from cigarettes or other sources contains a mix of chemicals, including carbon monoxide, nicotine, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These chemicals can irritate the lungs, eyes, and nasal passages, triggering migraines or headaches.

2. Perfume
Strong perfumes and fragrances contain a variety of chemicals that can irritate the nervous system, including the trigeminal nerve responsible for the sensation and pain in the face and head. When this nerve is activated, it can cause pain and discomfort, leading to migraines or headaches.

3. Car exhaust
Car exhaust contains a range of pollutants, including nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter. Exposure to these pollutants can trigger inflammation and oxidative stress, which can lead to migraines or headaches.

4. Chemical cleaners
Many cleaning products contain chemicals such as ammonia, bleach, and fragrances that can irritate the respiratory system and trigger migraines or headaches in some people. These chemicals can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.

5. Food cooking
Cooking odors can stimulate the trigeminal nerve, leading to migraines or headaches in some people. Additionally, certain foods such as aged cheeses, chocolate, and wine contain natural compounds that can trigger migraines in susceptible individuals.

Now that we know why these smells can trigger migraines and headaches, what can we do to prevent or alleviate them? Here are five treatments that can help relieve smell-related migraines:

Headache-specific medication: There are medications designed specifically to treat migraines, such as UBRELVY. These medications target the nerves that cause pain associated with migraines triggered by smells.

Over-the-counter pills and pain relievers: Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as Advil or Excedrin can help reduce the pain caused by a headache.

Avoid the odor: The easiest way to prevent migraines or headaches triggered by an odor is to avoid it altogether.

Essential oils: Essential oils such as lavender or peppermint can help reduce the symptoms of a headache triggered by an odor.

Relaxation techniques: Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help calm your body and reduce the frequency and severity of your migraines or headaches.

Triggered by odors can be caused by the irritation of the trigeminal nerve, exposure to pollutants, or consumption of certain foods. By understanding the causes and triggers of migraines and headaches we can take steps to prevent or alleviate these symptoms using treatments such as avoiding the odor, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, using headache-specific medication, using essential oils, or practicing relaxation techniques. If you experience frequent or severe migraines or headaches, consult with your doctor to find the most suitable treatment option for you.