As I rolled out of bed yesterday morning, I had that nagging feeling – the one that signals a migraine is lurking just around the corner. It’s not like I could pinpoint any specific symptoms, but I just felt…off. You know that weird, fuzzy sensation that makes you wonder if it’s just fatigue or something more sinister?
As a chronic migraine warrior, I’ve learned to recognize these subtle signs as a warning system, signaling that my brain is about to go into overdrive and conjure up a migraine monster. And boy, did it deliver!
In this case, the telltale tears started streaming down my face mere minutes after I got out of bed – a reliable sign that a migraine was on its way. When I’ve had enough experience with these silent warnings, it’s like having a sixth sense that alerts me to take evasive action before things get out of hand.
For some people, the warning signs are more obvious. They might feel an intense urge to yawn or sigh (often accompanied by that annoying “stunned” feeling). Me? I’m a tearful crier. But for others, it’s just a general feeling of being “off-balance” – like they’re stuck in neutral and can’t seem to get moving.
The Migraine Association of Ireland has compiled an impressive list of possible prodrome symptoms, including:
* Tearing (my personal favorite!)
- Yawning
- Sighing
- Feeling “off”
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Appetite changes
And that’s not even the tip of the iceberg! Many people report having no specific symptoms at all – just a vague feeling of being “out of sorts.” Like, what does it mean when you feel…well, like nothing?
So, what are your reliable warning signs? Do you get the classic migraine trifecta: tearing, yawning, and sighing? Or do you experience something entirely different? Share your experiences in the comments below!
