6 Common Odors That Can Cause Migraines

6 Common Odors That Can Cause Migraines

The symptoms of migraine can be intense. It can be difficult for chronic migraine patients to complete daily activities without frequent pain. The good news is that you can avoid the onset of a migraine by avoiding certain known triggers. For instance, many migraine sufferers also experience osmophobia, which is an aversion to certain smells, which can also cause a migraine. Here are six common odor triggers for migraine headaches:

1. Air fresheners
Air fresheners can make a room smell better. However, migraine sufferers may find that air fresheners worsen their symptoms. Not only can the ingredients in air fresheners cause migraines, but they have also been linked to many health problems. This includes allergy symptoms, asthma attacks and neurological problems. If you want to freshen up the room, then you may want to consider using essential oils instead of air fresheners. You can also use an air purifier.

2. Cigarette smoke
Cigarette smoke is something that you should try to avoid at all costs. Not only is it bad for your overall health, but it can also trigger and worsen migraine symptoms. Keep in mind that you do not even have to be directly exposed to the cigarette smoke in order to be hurt by it. If your clothing has cigarette smoke in it, then you may still develop migraine symptoms.

3. Perfumes and fragrances
Perfumes can make you smell good. However, they are something that you may want to avoid if you suffer from migraines. Certain perfumes can trigger migraine symptoms. You may also want to ask other people around you to stop wearing perfume around you.

4. Cleaning chemicals
The right products can help you keep your home clean. However, the chemicals in the products can cause you to experience symptoms of migraine. It may be best for you to switch to natural cleaning products. You can also use baking soda and vinegar to clean your home.

5. Food odors
Many people notice that they get a migraine when they smell certain foods. Pickled foods, onions, salami and cheese are some of the foods that can trigger migraines. It can be difficult for you to find out what you are sensitive to. That is why it is a good idea for you to keep a food diary. Write down the foods that you eat every day. You should also write down when you have a migraine. See if eliminating certain foods gets rid of your migraines.

6. Candles
Candles can trigger migraines in certain people. However, that does not mean that you have to avoid using candles for the rest of your life. It is a good idea for you to use candles that do not have a scent. You can also buy organic or natural candles that are free of artificial ingredients.