Smell plays a significant role in triggering a migraine. While different scents affect migraine patients differently, several common smells are particularly troublesome for migraine sufferers, such as chemical fumes, gasoline, cigarette smoke, perfumes and fragrances, and even food smells.

Migraines cause severe, pulsating pain usually on one side of the head that can last for hours or even days. Other migraine symptoms include nausea, dizziness, vomiting, moodiness, and fatigue. The top smells that trigger migraines include:

1. Cigarette smoke
Cigarette smoke can be experienced from smoking or inhaling secondhand smoke. Nicotine is the main ingredient that triggers the headache. It starts when the blood vessels’ sizes in the brain change. Another way is by irritating the nose and throat, hence an allergic reaction. The best and effective way to avoid it is to stay away from smokers and do not smoke.

2. Food odors
Most foods are delicious, but the problem is that most of the smells can trigger severe attacks. The onion bears a strong smell, and so does turkey, cheese sandwich, and dark chocolate can be food triggers. They contain food chemicals that can cause a chronic migraine. Others include fish, processed meats, diet drinks, and stilton. It is advisable to have a trigger diary; it will eliminate any food that causes any discomfort. You can visit your GP or dietitian for more medical advice.

3. Perfumes
Most perfumes contain chemicals that could cause headaches. In case you are allergic to any heavy perfumes, especially from shampoos, soaps, and conditioners. The recommendation is that you avoid them. The challenge could be it is not the scent that has an issue but rather the chemical composition. When there is an increase in the exposure, you will experience migraines. Avoid any strong perfumes that can bring out any allergies.

4. Cleaning chemicals
Most sufferers will complain about common cleaning chemicals. The secret is looking for chemicals that have fewer triggers and still maintain cleanliness. The chemicals released are in a gas form commonly known as volatile organic compounds. They are toxic to the extent of triggering severe migraines. The recommendation is that there is adequate air supply when using the products, use as per manufacturer’s directions, and throw away any unused containers. Always limit the number of cleaning products; it will help with the attacks.

5. Candles
Scented candles help give a room a great and pleasant ambiance. Some of them come in jasmine, sandalwood, and lavender; they create a refreshing and relaxing atmosphere. Most people suffer from migraines from the wax that releases harmful chemicals, others react to the strong fragrances within. You need to know that, in as much as you are enjoying the atmosphere and fragrance, it may affect your health. Limit the number of candles that burn in your home.

6. Air fresheners
Air fresheners help to keep the house smelling nice and attractive. It is advisable to use fragrance-free air fresheners and ensure that your doors and windows are open. Most of the air fresheners have toxic substances that can make you sick. It is your responsibility to know about the different air fresheners in the market. Look for the safer ones.

Migraine occurs because of different triggers like odors and smells are best managed by avoiding the trigger.