Migraine and olfactory stimuli

Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2010 Jun;14(3):244-51. doi: 10.1007/s11916-010-0109-7.

Abstract

Migraine patients often report intolerance to odours. Migraineurs report odours may trigger attacks, that they experience osmophobia during attacks, and olfactory hypersensitivity between attacks. In this paper we discuss olfactory mechanisms in migraine. We also present data from a pilot questionnaire study in a group of young women diagnosed with migraine. The study results confirm that hypersensitivity to odour is a common feature in women with migraine. Migraine pathophysiology likely explains this particular vulnerability. We discuss these pathophysiologic mechanisms and hypotheses relating odour intolerances and migraine.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Migraine Disorders / complications
  • Migraine Disorders / physiopathology*
  • Odorants*
  • Olfaction Disorders / etiology
  • Olfaction Disorders / physiopathology*
  • Olfactory Perception / physiology
  • Pilot Projects
  • Smell / physiology
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult