It is common in migraineurs for their headaches to be triggered or worsened by strong scents. Additionally, some people may experience aversion to scents that they usually do not find bothersome outside of a migraine attack. This is also known as osmophobia. Common trigger scents include perfumes, exhaust from cars, cigarette smoke, food, and heavily scented cleaning products.
Some individuals even experience smelling things that are not there with their migraines. Also known as olfactory hallucinations, the types of scents are often undesirable including the smell of sulfur, rotting meat, smoke, or burning scent. It is especially important if you start experiencing this to speak with your healthcare provider to rule out other work concerning causes.
By: Brooke Steiger, NP