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Environmental Triggers
Odors as Triggers
 

These can be as obnoxious as cigarette smoke or as benign as a perfume. Hand cream, cosmetic bases, colognes and room deodorizers are commonly described by migraine patients. Cleaning products such as spray wax or heavy cooking smells are also described. Automobile exhausts, the smell of an old car, stale cigarette smoke, etc. are all potential culprits.

Weather Conditions
 

Very commonly described by migraineurs. Usually "change = headache" is a good description but it is more common to see the pressure drops before a storm as a common trigger. We sometimes are referred to as "human barometers". Intense cold is a trigger for some people, possibly through its direct effect on scalp or the muscles of the neck. It is sometimes helpful to know the impending weather conditions so you can take the proper precautions with preventative medications, etc.

Seasons
Many patients misdiagnose their headaches as "sinus headaches" because they are more common in spring and fall. Many of these patients are actually experiencing headaches caused by the rapid fluctuations that occur during those seasons.
 
     
 

Copyright Edmund Messina MD 2012, Michigan Headache Clinic