What are the signs and symptoms of a migraine?

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What are the signs and symptoms of a migraine?

Migraines are a complex neurological condition that goes beyond simple headaches, involving various stages and a multitude of symptoms. The signs and symptoms of migraines can be broadly categorized into four main phases: prodrome, aura, headache (attack), and postdrome. Here’s a detailed explanation of each phase and the associated symptoms:

1. Prodrome Phase

The prodrome phase occurs hours or even days before the onset of the migraine headache. This phase can include a variety of subtle warning signs that a migraine is imminent.

Common Symptoms:

Mood Changes: Unexplained feelings of elation, irritability, or depression.
Food Cravings: An increased desire for certain foods.
Neck Stiffness: Tension or discomfort in the neck and shoulders.
Increased Thirst and Urination: Feeling unusually thirsty and frequent urination.
Yawning: Frequent yawning, even when not tired.
Fatigue: A general sense of tiredness or low energy (World Health Organization (WHO)) (Nature) (World Health Organization (WHO)).

2. Aura Phase

Not everyone with migraines experiences the aura phase. For those who do, auras typically precede the headache phase and can last from a few minutes to an hour.

Common Symptoms:

Visual Disturbances: Flashing lights, blind spots, zigzag patterns, or visual hallucinations.
Sensory Changes: Tingling or numbness, often starting in the fingers and spreading to the face.
Speech and Language Issues: Difficulty speaking or finding the right words.
Motor Symptoms: Rarely, aura may involve muscle weakness or a feeling of heaviness (World Health Organization (WHO)) (Nature) (IHCI).

3. Headache (Attack) Phase

The headache phase is the most debilitating part of a migraine and can last from 4 to 72 hours if untreated. The pain can vary in intensity and location but is typically severe and throbbing.

Common Symptoms:

Intense Headache: Severe, throbbing or pulsing pain, usually on one side of the head, though it can affect both sides.
Nausea and Vomiting: Many people experience nausea and sometimes vomiting.
Sensitivity to Light (Photophobia): Bright lights can be unbearable.
Sensitivity to Sound (Phonophobia): Loud noises can be painful.
Sensitivity to Smell (Osmophobia): Strong odors may trigger or worsen the headache.
Dizziness: A feeling of being lightheaded or off-balance.
Blurred Vision: Difficulty focusing or seeing clearly.
Fainting: In severe cases, a person might faint (World Health Organization (WHO)) (Nature) (IHCI).

4. Postdrome Phase

After the headache subsides, the postdrome phase can leave individuals feeling drained and fatigued. This phase can last from a few hours to a day.

Common Symptoms:

Exhaustion: Feeling extremely tired or weak.
Confusion: Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly.
Mood Changes: Feelings of euphoria or depression.
General Malaise: A lingering sense of discomfort or feeling unwell (World Health Organization (WHO)) (Nature) (World Health Organization (WHO)).

Additional Symptoms and Considerations

Migraine Triggers:

Dietary Factors: Certain foods and beverages like caffeine, alcohol, aged cheeses, and artificial sweeteners can trigger migraines.
Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in estrogen levels, often associated with menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can trigger migraines in some women.
Stress: High levels of stress or sudden stress relief can provoke migraines.
Environmental Factors: Bright lights, loud noises, strong smells, and changes in weather or barometric pressure.
Sleep Disturbances: Irregular sleep patterns, lack of sleep, or oversleeping can trigger migraines.
Physical Factors: Intense physical exertion or fatigue can contribute to migraine onset.
Medications: Some medications, including certain birth control pills and vasodilators, can trigger migraines (World Health Organization (WHO)) (Nature) (World Health Organization (WHO)) (IHCI).

Conclusion

Migraines are a multi-faceted condition with a variety of symptoms that can significantly impact quality of life. Understanding the phases of migraines and their associated symptoms is crucial for effective diagnosis and management. If you suspect you suffer from migraines, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.

Wiki Migraine