The phases of a migraine attack

Migraine is often described as a headache, but many attacks unfold in phases. Knowing the phases can help someone treat earlier, explain symptoms better, and avoid mistaking early symptoms for unrelated problems.

Prodrome

Prodrome can start hours to one or two days before head pain. Possible symptoms include yawning, food cravings, mood changes, constipation, neck stiffness, thirst, increased urination, fatigue, or feeling "off."

These symptoms can look like triggers. For example, a food craving may be part of the attack starting, not necessarily the cause of the attack.

Aura

Aura affects some people with migraine. It can include visual changes, tingling, numbness, dizziness, or speech difficulty. Aura symptoms usually build gradually and are temporary. New, sudden, prolonged, or unusual symptoms should be assessed urgently.

Attack

The attack phase can include throbbing or pulsing pain, often with nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound, smell, touch, or movement. Untreated adult attacks commonly last 4 to 72 hours.

Postdrome

After the pain improves, some people feel drained, foggy, confused, washed out, or tender for up to a day. Planning recovery time is part of practical migraine care.

Sources

• Mayo Clinic: Migraine symptoms and causes
• NHS: Migraine