Migraines are chronic, intense, pulsating headaches that are often accompanied by symptoms like nausea. People also develop an increased sensitivity to light and sounds that further worsen any flare-ups. There is no cure for the condition, but its symptoms can be managed. Here are some common and some unusual triggers of the headache to identify before you start looking up “migraine headache doctor near me” or any other related phrase. Unhealthy eating habits Eating late or skipping a meal altogether can trigger these headaches. Some foods like processed meats, fermented pickles, and aged dairy products like cheese are known causes of migraine. Even certain food preservatives, additives, and artificial flavorings are all mild triggers that can lead to flare-ups. Not staying hydrated but drinking too much alcohol or caffeine can also cause problems. Stimulants in the environment Bright lights, flickering bulbs, pulsating lights, and even loud sounds are all external stimuli that can trigger migraines. The same goes for loud noises and high-frequency ambiance in the environment. Sudden shifts in the weather with atmospheric pressure can also force the brain to release more serotonin that results in a throbbing sensation, much similar to that of a headache. Stress Stress is one of the major triggers of migraine headaches.

Migraines are different from regular headaches, as the former is usually followed by nausea or vomiting. Further, people experience heightened sensitivity to light or sound, which worsen the symptoms. However, there are some smells and strong odors in the environment that can also trigger migraine attacks. Understand that the intensity of these headaches will vary depending on the type of odor. Here are five toxic smells that commonly trigger migraines. Pollutants Before exploring the classifieds section for migraine doctors near me, understand how air pollution can trigger migraines. Even limited exposure to vehicle exhaust or inhaling pollutants in the air released by industries are bad for such headaches. Some people may also experience discomfort upon inhaling the smell of asphalt. Vehicles driving at high speeds create friction and churn up the bitumen, a product used for paving the road. Inhaling the fumes can cause headaches. Strong fragrances Perfumes rank among the most common triggers of migraine headaches. The potent alcohol and chemicals used in manufacturing cologne or perfumes increase smell sensitivity. Inhaling even a small amount of this fragrance can lead to swelling blood vessels that stimulate the nerve centers linked to processing pain. Chemical products Even basic solvents and detergents used for home cleaning can trigger and worsen migraine headaches.