A migraine manifests as a severe headache characterized by its varying intensity and in most cases, accompanying sensitivity to light and sound. In some cases, a migraine may make the afflicted feel nauseated. Some of the most common triggers for a migraine are stress, strong smells, hormonal changes, bright lights, loud sounds and exercise. However, the following smells are often triggers for migraines:

1. Cigarette smoke
Many researchers agree that cigarette smoke can be a trigger for headaches. Owing to its vasoactive nature, when nicotine from the tobacco smoke hits the bloodstream it causes the narrowing of blood vessels. As a result, there is reduced blood flow to the brain which may trigger a migraine. People with sensitivity or allergies to the smell of cigarette smoke may also experience migraines when exposed to it. A persistent smoker will have a lot of carbon monoxide in their blood which can be a prerequisite for migraines.

2. Food odors
Some food odors such as those from onions and fatty foods can act as triggers for migraines. For people with osmophobia, exposure to foods with spicy or strong odors can kickstart terrible migraines. Osmophobia is a common condition among migraine patients with an aversion to certain smells. This can however be effectively checked by using safe and relevant migraine medication.

3. Perfumes
Many people have had an experience where exposure to strong smelling or unusual perfume triggered a migraine. They are believed to be the most common trigger for migraines. During migraine attacks, many are equally unable to withstand these odors. The Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCS) in perfumes are believed to be responsible for these attacks.

4. Cleaning chemicals
In almost every household, you are likely to find a variety of cleaning chemicals used for different purposes. These chemicals have been proven to cause various health complications when people are exposed to them. They irritate the eyes and throat, cause headaches and may even cause cancer in prolonged use. These products contain bleach, ammonia and other VOCs which can trigger serious migraines.

5. Candles
Quite often, people with sensitivity to strong smells complain of migraines triggered by candles.Scented candles especially those with poor quality fragrance can be quite problematic for such people. These candles contain unsafe chemicals and VOCs which can be quite hazardous for the health of those in your home.

6. Air fresheners
Using either scented candles or air fresheners can be hazardous for your health. This is seen in the quite commonplace complaints of migraines and headaches after long exposure to these smells. People with allergies tend to be more sensitive and susceptible to migraines as a result of using these products. Air fresheners in particular tend to be more toxic as they contain a substantial amount of volatile organic compounds which are proven to cause health complications.

The best control measure for migraine attacks triggered by strong smells is to avoid the odor whenever possible. If you can’t many patients choose to obtain medicine for severe migraine headaches, preferably with a prescription from a legitimate medical professional. A good example is the use of over the counter Advil treatment for migraine headaches in adults. Proper use of these prescribed medicine would ensure relief for migraine headaches.