Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Migraines

Migraines are generally self-limiting episodes featuring intense headaches linked with autonomic symptoms. Many sufferers also experience aura before the headache. The intensity, duration, and frequency of migraines vary widely among individuals. When a migraine persists beyond 72 hours, it is called status migrainosus.

Four potential stages characterize a migraine, though not all stages are experienced by every individual.

The stages include:

• Prodrome Stage
  Common among migraine sufferers, this phase can last from two hours up to two days. It may be triggered by excessive intake of processed foods or caffeine. Symptoms include mood changes, irritability, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues like constipation or diarrhea.
• Aura Stage
  Medically, an aura is a brief neurological disturbance. Patients often notice visual issues, sensory changes, or motor symptoms. Visual auras may feature flickering zigzag lines starting near the center of vision. Sensory auras, occurring in roughly 40% of cases, cause tingling sensations that often start on one hand and spread to the nose and mouth, sometimes accompanied by speech difficulties.
• Pain Phase
  This stage involves moderate to severe headache pain, often worsened by physical activity. Neck discomfort may also be present. This phase is common when stress triggers the migraine.
• Postdrome Phase
  Following the headache, individuals may experience lingering head pain, cognitive challenges, mood swings, gastrointestinal symptoms, and weakness. Irregular sleep patterns can also contribute to this phase.