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Headache triggers and smoking

Smoking and second-hand smoke from cigarettes, cigars and pipes can contribute to headaches for both the smoker and non-smokers around them. Nicotine, one of the components of tobacco, stimulates the blood vessels in the brain so that they constrict (narrow). Smoking also stimulates the nerves in the back of the throat, contributing to headache pain.

Usually, by removing the stimulus (nicotine), headaches will be relieved. Stopping smoking or reducing your exposure to smoke is especially helpful if you have cluster headaches. In one study, people with cluster headaches who reduced their tobacco use by less than half a packet of cigarettes a day found their headaches reduced by 50%.

Recommended Related to Migraines/Headaches

What is chronic tension headache?

If you have a headache most days for a long time, you could have chronic tension headache. There are several treatments that can help you, including medicines and therapies to teach you how to relax. And you can do some simple things yourself that may make you feel better. We've brought together the best research about chronic tension headache and weighed up the evidence about how to treat it. You can use our information to talk to your doctor and decide which treatments are best for you.

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Allergy to smoke as well as odour sensitivity can also cause migraine headaches in some people. By avoiding situations or places where smoking occurs, headaches may be avoided.