Can smoking contribute to headaches?
Current scientific evidence suggests that cigarette smoke may contribute substantially to headache disorders. There are several mechanisms by which this may occur: • Smoking may cause headache by raising carbon monoxide levels in the blood and brain, in much the same way as a faulty furnace or a car running in an enclosed garage can provoke headache. • Reduced oxygenation will also cause headache and deprive tissues of needed oxygen which may be relevant to other pain-related illness. • Nicotine itself has a toxic effect on the brain and also alters liver metabolism which has an adverse effect on many of the drugs that are used to control headaches. It is our recommendation that all patients experiencing recurrent headache should discontinue cigarette smoking as part of their treatment program. We also strongly encourage a smoke-free environment in the home and workplace.
