2024-05-20 22:00:00
News Certain strong smells can trigger migraine attacks in migraine sufferers. What odors are most likely to trigger these attacks? One study divided odors associated with migraines into six groups and identified the most dangerous ones.
Osmosis phobia and olfactory migraine attacks
If causality remains unknown, Already proven The smell may actually trigger migraines in some people. This phenomenon is called infiltration phobia. This term refers to an allergy or aversion to certain odors. For migraine sufferers, certain odors (often strong or penetrating) may trigger a migraine attack.
Odors commonly reported as triggers include perfume, cigarette smoke, cooking smells, chemicals and fuel smells.
The reasons explaining this phenomenon have not yet been elucidated. Since odors are processed by the trigeminal and olfactory nerves, there are two possible pathways to the origin of migraines. Some experts believe that odors interact directly with the nociceptive pathways of the trigeminal nerve, causing inflammation or narrowing of blood vessels. Others claim that the size of the olfactory bulb (the part of the brain responsible for processing olfactory messages transmitted by nerves) may affect sensitivity to odors.
See also article: Different types of migraines
6 categories of smells
A study published in the journal Scientific Reports Odors associated with migraine attacks were analyzed in 101 migraineurs. About 16% suffer from chronic migraine and 84% suffer from episodic migraine. An association between odor and migraine attacks was observed in 78% of participants.
The study identified six factors common to odors and divided them into six categories:
Foul odors, kitchen cooking smells, petroleum derivatives, shampoos and conditioners, cleaning products, perfumes, pesticides and rose scents.
The fifth factor, which also included plant-based styling preparations, laundry detergents, and floral-scented fabric softeners, showed significantly higher associations with migraine attacks in chronic migraine patients.
See also article: Baking Soda to Remove Odors
Odors most associated with migraine attacks
More than 50% of participants said that the smell of perfume, especially floral scents, triggers migraines. Followed by tobacco (47.5%), fabric softener (32.7%), body odor (32.7%), garbage (24.8%), hair products (22.8%), and cars. (22.8%) and sweat (19.8%). No participants reported that smelling lemons, oranges, or apples triggered migraines.
Regarding migraine type, chronic migraineurs are more sensitive to fabric softeners (especially floral scents), sweat, socks, coffee, feces, vomit odors, and animal odors than episodic migraineurs.
Know your triggers and prevent migraine attacks
This study provides insight into the smells that most trigger migraines. By identifying the odors you are sensitive to, you can try to prevent an attack from happening by leaving the premises, opening a window, or going outside.
Additionally, certain strategies, such as the use of air purifiers and good ventilation of living spaces, can also have beneficial effects.
See also article: New Migraine Drug: Fast-Acting Nasal Spray
source:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com
Last updated: May 2024
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