Migraine Symptoms & Diagnosis

Warning

A warning may come before a migraine. In the hours or days before the headache, symptoms may include:

• A change in mood
• A change in behavior
• A change in the level of activity
• Fatigue
• Yawning
• Food craving or decreased appetite
• Nausea, diarrhea
• Sensitivity to light

Aura

The most common aura is visual. The aura lasts about 15-30 minutes. It may produce the following sensations:

• Flashing lights, spots, or zig zag lines
• Temporary, partial loss of vision
• Speech difficulties
• Weakness in an arm or leg
• Numbness or tingling in the face and hands
• Confusion
• Dizziness, lightheadedness
• Speech disturbances
• Cognitive dysfunction

More rarely, an aura can occur by itself. In these cases, it is important to seek medical attention to make sure the symptoms are not due to a more serious cause. This can include stroke or seizure.

The Migraine Headache

Migraine pain starts within an hour of the aura ending. Symptoms include:

• A headache (usually on one side but may involve both sides) that often feels:
  • Moderate or severe intensity
  • Throbbing or pulsating
  • More severe with movement
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Lightheadedness or dizziness

A Post-Headache Period

Migraines usually last from 4-72 hours. They often go away with sleep. After the headache, you may experience:

• Trouble concentrating
• Fatigue
• Sore muscles
• Irritability
• Mood changes