stages of a migraine attack
Know the 4 stages of migraine attacks
While everyone experiences migraine in different ways, there are 4 general symptom phases of a migraine attack. Learning to recognize these stages can help you understand what to expect—and help your family, friends, and colleagues better cope—when an attack occurs.
stage 1: preheadache (also called prodrome)
Preheadache symptoms often begin hours or days before migraine pain. These symptoms may include the following:
- Fatigue or other changes in behavior
- Mood changes
- Food cravings
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Sensitivity to light or sound
stage 2: migraine aura
Aura typically begins 20 to 60 minutes before the headache phase (stage 3) and usually fades before the headache begins. Sufferers may experience visual symptoms, such as
- Flashing lights
- Zigzag lines
- Blank spots before their eyes
stage 3: headache
Debilitating head pain that may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting, sensitivity to light (also called photophobia), and sensitivity to sound (also called phonophobia)
- The pain can last for up to 4 hours to as long as 72 hours
- Most people feel pain on one side of the head or the other; however, it’s not uncommon to feel it on both sides
What you can do
- Keep your migraine medication handy—the earlier you take your medication once you develop a migraine headache the more effective it may be
- Avoid unnecessary activity
- Find a quiet, dark room to relax
stage 4: postheadache (also called postdrome)
The period following the headache. Some sufferers may experience one or more of the following symptoms
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Feelings of euphoria
- Intense well-being
What you can do
- Make notes about your migraine attack and possible triggers in your Migraine Diary
(PDF — 239KB)
- Review your migraine plan of action and make any necessary adjustments
- Thank the people who helped while your headache was at its worst
- Keep your migraine medication handy in case the headache returns