A migraine is typically identified by a severe, throbbing headache often on one side of the head, accompanied by sensitivity to light, sound, or smell, and nausea or vomiting. Other symptoms may include visual disturbances (aura), dizziness, mood changes, and neck stiffness. Migraines can last from 4 hours up to 3 days, and some people experience warning signs like fatigue, food cravings, or difficulty concentrating before the headache begins.
Common Migraine Symptoms
- Intense throbbing or pulsing headache, often on one side
- Sensitivity to light, sound, and sometimes smell or touch
- Nausea and vomiting
- Visual disturbances such as flashing lights, zigzag lines, or blind spots (aura)
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Mood changes, fatigue, brain fog
- Neck stiffness or pain
- Increased urination or food cravings prior to the headache
Warning Signs (Prodrome phase)
- Mood changes (irritability, depression, euphoria)
- Difficulty concentrating or "brain fog"
- Food cravings
- Neck stiffness
- Frequent yawning or urination
Aura Symptoms (which may happen before or during migraine)
- Visual changes like shimmering lights or blind spots
- Numbness or tingling, especially on one side of the body
- Difficulty speaking
- Dizziness
If these symptoms sound familiar and headaches severely impact daily activities, it is likely a migraine. Keeping a symptom diary can help in diagnosis, and consulting a healthcare provider is recommended for proper evaluation and treatment.