Can air pollution cause headaches?
POOR air quality may cause headaches by triggering inflammation in the nervous system, leading to neuroinflammation.
Air pollution is a significant problem worldwide and is linked to various conditions, such as neurodegenerative diseases, stroke, autism, depression, and developmental delays. There’s also growing evidence linking air pollution to headache disorders, especially migraine episodes. Let’s delve into how air pollution causes headaches and what we can do to protect ourselves from its harmful effects.
Can air pollution cause headaches?
Studies from different regions of the world show a significant association between air pollution and the occurrence of headaches. Several pollutants have been linked to headaches, including the following:
▶ Particulate matter: Tiny particles of solids or liquids suspended in the air, including dust, dirt, soot, and smoke, which can be harmful when inhaled.
▶ Nitrogen dioxide: This is a reddishbrown gas produced by burning fuel, particularly in vehicles and power plants, which can irritate the lungs and lower resistance to respiratory infections.
▶ Sulfur dioxide: Sulfur dioxide is a colorless gas with a distinctive smell, often likened to the odor of rotten eggs. It’s produced when fossil fuels containing sulfur are burned. Inhalation of sulfur dioxide can cause respiratory issues, and it also contributes to the formation of acid rain.
▶ Ozone: This is a gas made up of three oxygen atoms. In the upper atmosphere, it shields us from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, at ground level, ozone forms when pollutants react with sunlight, contributing to the formation of smog that can harm our respiratory systems.
▶ Carbon monoxide: This gas has no color or smell. It’s created when fuels like wood, gas, or oil don’t burn completely. Breathing in a lot of carbon monoxide can be deadly because it stops your blood from carrying oxygen.
▶ Polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons (PAHs): PAHs are a group of chemicals that occur naturally in coal, crude oil, and gasoline, as well as in the smoke from burning fossil fuels and other organic substances. Some PAHs are known to cause cancer.
▶ Volatile organic compounds
(VOCs): Organic chemicals that evaporate easily into the air are commonly found in paints, solvents, cleaning products, and fuels. Exposure to high levels of VOCs can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, as well as headaches and nausea.
▶ Biomass fuels: Types of biomass fuels include renewable organic materials, such as wood, crop waste, or animal dung, used as fuel. Burning biomass fuels can release pollutants into the air, contributing to air pollution.
The exact mechanisms by which air pollution triggers headaches aren’t fully understood. However, it’s believed that poor air quality can cause headaches by triggering inflammation in the nervous system, leading to neuroinflammation and cell death.
How do you know if air quality is affecting you?
You can tell if air quality is affecting you by paying attention to any unusual symptoms or changes in your health when air pollution levels are high. In the United States, you can use sites like Purple Air to monitor the air quality in your neighborhood to see if times of poor air quality line up with your symptoms, such as:
▶ headaches
▶ coughing
▶ wheezing
▶ shortness of breath
▶ chest tightness
▶ dizziness
▶ fatigue
▶ irritation of the eyes, nose, or throat Keeping a symptom journal that makes note of the air quality is a great way to see if it could be the cause of your headaches. Once you have a record of how the air quality is affecting you, your doctor can recommend a treatment plan.
How to get rid of headaches from poor air quality
Here are some tips for managing headaches due to poor air quality:
▶ Identify and reduce exposure: Identify sources of poor air quality, like pollution, allergens, or irritants, and try to reduce your exposure. Use apps or websites, such as AirNow, that provide real-time air quality updates. Avoid outdoor activities during high pollution days and keep windows closed during peak pollution times.
▶ Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers: Consider taking OTC pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help alleviate headache pain.
▶ Air purifier: Look for air purifiers that are certified by organizations like the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) or have a HighEfficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter, as these are typically effective against a wide range of pollutants. Regularly clean and maintain the purifier according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure optimal performance.
▶ Stay hydrated: Dehydration can worsen headaches, so drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
▶ Cold compress: Apply a cold compress or ice pack to your forehead or the back of your neck to help alleviate headache pain.
Essential oils: Some people find relief from headaches by using essential oils such as peppermint or lavender. You can inhale the scent or apply diluted oil to your temples.
▶ Seek professional help: If your headaches persist, consult with a healthcare professional. They can help determine if there are underlying issues contributing to your headaches and recommend appropriate treatments.