Smoking and second-hand smoke from cigarettes, cigars, and pipes can
contribute to headaches for both the smoker and the non-smoker. Nicotine, one of
the components of tobacco, stimulates vascular activity in the brain. Smoking
also stimulates the ganglion nerves in the back of the throat, contributing to
headache pain. In some people, this stimulation can contribute to headaches.
Usually, by removing the stimulus (nicotine), headaches will be relieved.
Quitting smoking or reducing exposure to secondhand smoke is especially helpful
for those with cluster headaches. In one study of patients with cluster
headaches, those who reduced their tobacco use by less than one-half pack of
cigarettes per day found their headaches were decreased by 50 percent.
Allergy to smoke, as well as odor sensitivity, can also cause migraine
headaches in some people. By avoiding situations or places where smoking is
permitted, or by quitting smoking, most people can reduce the onset of migraine
headache.