Despite being used interchangeably at times, headaches and migraines are two separate occurrences. A headache is pain associated with the face, head, and neck; a migraine is a neurological disorder that occurs in episodes of severe, pulsating pain that is recurring. Migraines are often accompanied by symptoms of pain on one side of the face, nausea, light and sound sensitivity, which can be triggered by stress, hormone imbalance, genetics, medications, and even odors.
Some common smells that trigger migraines include
1. Cigarette smoke
Without a full comprehension of what causes migraines, scientists have concluded that they characterize a change in blood flow and an above-average production of matter in the brain. This reaction may be the reason nicotine causes headaches. Inhaling smoke alters the size of the blood vessels in your mind. Even when you inhale secondhand smoke, you may be affected by this odor. It may irritate your throat and nose or even give an allergic reaction
2. Food odors
Osmophobia is a symptom of migraines. Osmophobia happens when you are hypersensitive or averse to certain smells. Many smells can trigger a migraine, and this includes the scent of foods such as onions, fried foods, and fatty foods in general. The intensity of a migraine may increase when these odors rise. It is essential to keep track of your migraine triggers so you can properly treat it
3. Perfumes
Research reveals that over 50% of persons who suffer from migraines are sensitive to smells. Therefore, with an average of 12-15% of Americans having delicate sensitivities to chemicals used in fragrances these days, it is no wonder migraines may come about from colognes. Remember earlier we said that it is a change in blood flow that causes migraines? Colognes may cause blood vessels to open, and the result is a stimulation of nerve cells that leads to pain
4. Cleaning chemicals
The supplies you use to clean contain unstable compounds that may be a migraine trigger. These chemicals may cause migraine sufferers to experience head pain, itching, and even irritant eyes. The trigeminal nerve receptor in the nose can be directly affected by your household cleaning aids. Once a migraine sets in, it steals time, energy and lowers your quality of life at that moment.
5. Candles or air fresheners
Air fumigants are other types of olfactory invaders that trigger migraines. Blocking of the protein calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) may cause inflammation and pain in the nervous system as they enter the body through inhalation. Secondary reactions include a runny nose and congestion. Air fumigants are everywhere and are unavoidable for the most part. However, if you know that these are a trigger for your migraines, clear the air! Avoid scented products and get treatment if needed. CGRP chronic headache medicine treatment is varied and available to be taken with an automatic pen or needle
Chronic migraines are distinguished by experiencing fifteen or more headaches each month. It can be challenging to live with headaches or migraines. However, chronic migraine headaches may be treated by doctor-prescribed medications, such as Nurtec.
