Odors are one of the leading causes of not only migraines but also osmophobia. However, note that like with other potential triggers of migraines, it is extremely challenging in identifying the exact mechanism leading to odors causing migraines. One possible explanation is that certain strong odors may cause the stimulation of specific nasal passages nerve receptors. The result is the activation of a migraine attack.

In terms of the symptoms of migraines they may include excessive sweating, irregular heartbeat, rapid breathing, dry mouth, nasal congestion, distorted vision, etc. Consequently, read on to know more about the five odors causing migraines:

1. Cigarette smoke
Not only smoking but also involuntary smoke is known for causing migraines. That is mainly possible because nicotine alters the size of the brain’s blood vessels which in turn yields migraines. It is also possible for cigarette smoke to cause migraines since it leads to allergic reactions or nose and throat irritation.

2. Food odors
There are many types of foods with strong scents such as onions, chocolate and food preservatives which may also lead to the triggering of migraines. For instance, the onion smell may cause shrinking of the blood vessels or cause the stimulation and subsequent inflammation of the trigeminal nerve. The result is migraines.As well, for those who love Chinese foods, it is possible to get migraines owing to monosodium glutamate (MSG), a popular tenderizer and flavor enhancer.

3. Perfumes
While people use perfumes as they usually have a pleasant smell evoking happiness, still, it is possible for them also to cause migraines to some people. Perfumes result in migraines due to the swelling and dilation of blood vessels. As a consequence the brain nerve system having a relationship with the head pain is stimulated. When faced with too strong or many perfumes see a way to proceed to a place less overwhelming or having fresh air.

4. Cleaning chemicals
Most conventional cleaning products, even those using fragrance are often for masking the solvent odor, have chemicals that may lead to the triggering of migraines. The risk of causing migraines may increase when cleaning inside with the chemicals. The chemical toxins occupy the room leading to a suffocating environment that can trigger migraines. The chemicals cause migraines by successfully irritating the receptors of the trigeminal nerve. Moreover, apart from migraines cleaning chemicals may also cause nausea and dizziness which have a close association with migraines.

5. Air fresheners
Air fresheners are products designed for masking odors or introducing a fragrance into the environment whether within the living or working space. Despite that benefit, air fresheners have also been known for generating or emitting lethal air pollutants that can be damaging to air quality.

The heightened sensitivity to the smell of air fresheners is a result of the activation of particular pain and scent receptors in the brain. For migraines treatment, there are several options. One can take pain relieving medications such as Motrin, Advil, Qulipta, Tylenol, or Excedrin. Just be sure to talk to your doctor about pain-relieving treatments that will work for your specific migraines. Patients can also employ the use of dietary changes and natural approaches such as ginger and peppermint. Avoiding exposure to certain odors including the ones discussed here and the use of natural treatment approaches can help alleviate the symptoms of migraines.