Migraines – those debilitating headaches that can strike at any moment and leave you feeling drained and helpless. But what if you could better understand your migraines and take control? By recognizing the 4 phases of migraine, you can make informed decisions about how to treat yourself before or during an attack, and work with your doctor to find the best treatment options.
Phase 1: The Prodrome – Your Body’s Warning Sign
The prodrome phase is often referred to as the “pre-headache” or “premonitory phase”. It can start up to 48 hours before other phases, and nearly 8 out of 10 people with migraine experience it. If you recognize these symptoms, you have a chance to take medications that can reduce the severity of your full-blown migraine attack.
Common prodrome symptoms include:
* Fatigue
- Mood changes
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Food cravings or aversions
Phase 2: Aura – The Senses Take Over
The aura phase is characterized by changes in your senses. Sight changes are the most common, but you may also experience changes to your sense of smell, hearing, touch, and even speech and movement. Some people even report having a combination of aura symptoms during an attack.
Aura can come on gradually over about 5 minutes, lasting around 1 hour before subsiding. But don’t be surprised if it hits quickly – in less than 5 minutes. Common aura symptoms include:
* Visual disturbances (flashes, zigzags, or blind spots)
- Speech difficulties
- Tingling or numbness
Phase 3: The Headache Phase – The Pulsing Pain
This is the phase that most people associate with migraine: the headache. It can last anywhere from 4 to 72 hours in adults and is often described as pulsating or throbbing, getting worse with physical activity.
But it’s not just about the pain. Other symptoms may include:
* Sensitivity to light and sound
- Nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty concentrating
Phase 4: The Postdrome – The Aftermath
The postdrome phase is when many people feel drained, exhausted, or hungover (yes, it’s like a hangover!). Some people even report feeling euphoric or a heightened sense of well-being. This phase can last up to 2 days and may include symptoms like:
* Depression
- Trouble concentrating or understanding
- Feeling “foggy”
Taking Control
By recognizing the 4 phases of migraine, you can take control of your attacks and make informed decisions about how to treat yourself. Remember, learning to spot a migraine attack early can be key to treating it quickly and effectively.
And don’t forget to talk with your doctor if your migraine patterns change or you experience new or disturbing symptoms. Changes in your usual migraine symptoms can be a sign of other health conditions, such as stroke or aneurysm.
For more information on migraines and how to manage them, visit [www.migrainemedicine.org](http://www.migrainemedicine.org).
