Stages – Migraines can go through four different stages. Not everyone will experience all stages. Even the actual attack stage might not be present with all migraines.

1. Prodome – These symptoms set in a few days before the migraine. They include:
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Depression and irritability
• Food cravings
• Hyperactivity
• Neck stiffness

2. Aura – Occurring shortly before or during the migraine, not everyone will experience this phase. Each symptom will begin slowly and build, lasting in total for 10 to 30 minutes. They can include:
• Seeing bright spots, shapes or light flashes
• Loss of vision
• A feeling of pins and needles in the limbs
• Problems speaking

 

3. Attack – Migraines can last anywhere from 4 hours to 3 days. They can occur on a weekly basis or only once every few months. Symptoms to watch for include:
• Pain that only affects one side of the head
• A pulsating or throbbing pain
• Sensitivity to stimuli such as light, sounds and smells
• Nausea 
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Blurred vision
• Lightheadedness or fainting

 

4. Postdrome – Occurring when the attack is over, some people feel drained and exhausted. Others report a feeling of euphoria.

Migraines are considered to be a disorder of the nervous system. Some people who suffer migraines are able to determine the trigger. It may be stress, hormones, lack of sleep, a woman’s pending menses, or certain foods. Common food sources for migraines include chocolate, wheat and alcohol. Those people who can determine and avoid their triggers can enjoy a migraine-free life. Many others, however, never find the trigger and are subject to migraines that can strike at any time. Some triggers, such as low air pressure, can not be avoided at all.

A retinal migraine is one that affects vision. It may or may not be accompanied by an actual migraine attack. Retinal migraines will typically affect both eyes.

One of the rarest and most serious types of migraine is the hemiplegic migraine. In addition to experiencing auras with the attack, people suffering from this acute migraine will also experience a frightening, stroke-like paralysis.

Paracetamol and suumatriptan are both effective medications used for treating severe migraines. They are available by prescription through your doctor. A single dose of aspirin can also bring some migraine relief. Some migraine medications include caffeine. This opens the blood vessels and allows the medication to work faster. Many people find that the best treatment is to sleep off the migraine, providing they are able to get to sleep.

Experts in the field of Neurology continue to conduct research and work towards uncovering more information into the causes and potential treatments for these debilitating headaches.