Cluster headaches are excruciating headaches that affect a small percentage of people throughout the US. They typically occur in clusters, causing severe pain on one side of the head, and last sometime between 15 minutes and 3 hours per episode. While the exact cause of cluster headaches is not yet known, researchers have suggested a number of potential triggers, including seasonal ones.
Researchers have found that people who live in Bend, Oregon are particularly prone to experiencing cluster headaches. The combination of both low atmospheric pressure and the city’s higher altitude is thought to be the leading factor behind these episodes. Additionally, Oregon’s temperature extremes, particularly the winter cold and summer heat, have been known to trigger cluster headache episodes.
In addition to low atmospheric pressure, altitude, and temperature extremes, there are also a number of seasonal triggers that can exacerbate cluster headache episodes. These can include scents, such as floral fragrances, new leather, and perfume, which are often used as gifts and exchanged during the holiday season. It is also not uncommon for some people to experience cluster headache episodes due to the flickering lights and noise associated with the holiday season.
Scents
As mentioned above, scents are a common trigger for cluster headaches. Many people have an allergic reaction to certain scents and these can provoke a cluster headache episode. Pollen is a particularly common scent that often triggers cluster headache episodes. People that are allergic to pollen can become particularly sensitive during the spring, when the pollen count is at its highest. Additionally, the holiday season is often punctuated by the many activities and obligations that come along with it, such as gift giving and decorating. These events can often mean enduring friends and family members who take pride in their particular holiday scents. Incense and different types of candles can also be culprits, particularly if they are strong scents or are inhaled in large amounts.
How to Reduce Risk of Triggering a Cluster Headache
Although it is impossible to avoid every possible trigger, there are a number of things individuals can do in order to reduce their risk of experiencing an episode. For example, being mindful of the bulbs used to decorate for the winter holidays. People should avoid using lights that flicker or LED lights that shine brightly. The same suggestion goes for other electrical devices, which can sometimes emit a high frequency noise that is painful for some people to hear. If someone needs to listen to music or plays video games, people should set a limit on the number of minutes these activities can be enjoyed. Finally, people with cluster headaches should avoid places where smoking is allowed and stay away from cars and trucks, as the fumes from these can sometimes trigger an episode.
In summary, while the exact cause of cluster headaches is not yet known, researchers have identified a number of potential triggers, with atmospheric pressure, altitude, changing weather, and scents making the top of the list. Several of these triggers, including certain scents like tobacco and holiday perfumes, are more prevalent during the holiday season. These triggers can all be managed to some extent by being mindful of the choices that are made, avoiding certain activities or places, and setting limits on certain activities. With careful planning, people with cluster headaches can reduce their risk of experiencing an episode.
