Expert: Michael Dean - 5/25/2009

Question
I have experienced migraine headaches, with the visual aura as a precursor, periodically.  Here is my smoking history: I began smoking cigarettes when I was 17 which lasted maybe three years.  I quit smoking for twelve years and began again six years ago. I did quit last Christmas and that was for 8 months. Within the 8 months the migraines came back and in clusters.  Not just within the withdrawal time, the entire time. I'm now 43 and I'm aware of all the negatives of smoking but, when I began research my headache history, I suffered with migraines when I did not smoke. I was 13 when I had my first migraine. I know what your thinking my friends say it too, your using that as an excuse not to quit. Believe me this is not the case. Am I an oddity?? I must add, prior to the last quitting sessions of cigs  I didn't have one migraine headache for six years. Also and lastly, my migraines disrupted my life.

Answer
Dear Hope,

Actually I don't think you are using the headaches as an excuse. You sound committed to quit, and with the help of a doctor you will be able to and get rid of the headaches.

Typically we think of smoking as causing migraines, but some people get headaches on quitting. There are several reasons why.

-Your brain is getting more oxygen and your body is ridding itself of carbon monoxide.
-Many people have their sleep temporarily disrupted.
-You are mode sensitive to caffeine.

http://migraineheadacherx.com/migraines_and_the_smoking_connection.php

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_causes_migraine_headaches

There are new medications for migraines. I would suggest seeing a doctor that and about prescribing both Chantix and Zyban. Chantix is a new drug that blocks nicotine's action. Zyban helps in reducing anxiety and withdrawal symptoms. Pfizer provides an online counseling program along with Zyban.

Nicotine replacement therapy is another option. There are patches, gums, lozenges and nasal sprays

Or for online resources:
http://smokefree.gov/

I have a site with info as well:
http://artsciencepub.com/quitting.htm

Good luck and let me know how it goes,

Michael Dean, Ph.D.
Author "Empty Cribs-The Impact of Smoking on Child Health"
http//www.artsciencepub.com