Migraine is more than just a passing headache. It is a complex neurological disorder that may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light or sound, and affects millions of people around the world.
Experts confirm that a migraine attack usually goes through four distinct stages, and understanding these stages may help sufferers recognize symptoms early and deal with them better.
Migraines affect millions around the world, but few people understand the different stages of a migraine attack.
Early warning stage
The first stage is known as the prodrome or warning stage, and it may begin about 24 to 48 hours before the seizure. During this period, early signs appear indicating the approach of a headache.
The occurrence of this stage is linked to abnormal activity in the hypothalamus area of the brain, which is responsible for regulating functions such as sleep, appetite, body temperature, and mood.
The most prominent symptoms of this stage are:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Cravings for certain foods
- Mood swings
- Sleep disorders
Noticing these signs is an opportunity for early intervention with treatment before a seizure develops.
Aura stage
The second stage is called aura, which is a group of temporary neurological symptoms that may affect vision, sensation, or speech.
The most common visual symptoms are, such as:
- Seeing flashes of light
- Zigzag or spiral shapes
- Blind spots in the field of vision
- Some people may also experience numbness in the face or extremities, or temporary difficulty speaking.
Studies indicate that this phenomenon is related to a slow wave of electrical activity that spreads in the brain and affects the functions of some of its areas. It is estimated that only about 30% of people with migraines suffer from aura.
Headache stage
This is the most obvious and painful stage, as a throbbing or throbbing headache appears, which may often affect one side of the head.
It may be accompanied by other symptoms such as:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Extreme sensitivity to light and sound
- Pain worsens with movement
This stage can last from four hours to three days if not treated. Pain is linked to the activation of the trigeminal nerve and the secretion of chemicals in the brain that are interpreted as pain.
Post-headache stage
After the pain ends, the sufferer enters a stage known as postdrome or “migraine.” During which the brain works to return to its normal state.
Common symptoms at this stage are:
- Extreme fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feeling exhausted or mentally confused
These symptoms may last for hours or even a whole day after the headache ends.
How can a seizure be dealt with?
Experts recommend monitoring for early symptoms and carrying pain medications or anti-nausea medications to use when warning signs begin. Early rest and appropriate treatment may also help reduce the severity of the attack or prevent its development.
If attacks occur more than four times a month, doctors may recommend preventive treatments taken regularly to reduce their occurrence.