Migraine Symptoms
While migraines are a common term used for describing bad headaches, a migraine in reality is a more specific type of headache with a strong intensity that is usually accompanied by a number of other symptoms as well. Having said this, the headache that is the primary symptom is a strong, throbbing pain that is usually felt at the front or side of the head. The site of the pain can also change position, and can be worsened by any movement.
Along with the headache the sufferer may also get accompanying symptoms such as vomiting, nausea and hallucinations. Sufferers may even lose sight temporarily in one or both eyes. The type and severity of these symptoms will vary between different people, as will the frequency of the attacks and the length of time each attacks lasts for.
Other symptoms that may be experienced once the migraine is in full swing may include an inability to concentrate, increased perspiration, sensitivity to bright lights (also called photo-sensitivity), stomach-aches and diarrhea and an increased frequency of urination.
There are also certain symptoms (called prodromal symptoms) that can manifest before the headache takes hold. These symptoms, as precursors, can warn you when a migraine is imminent and they include sleeplessness, irritability, a craving for sweet and sugary foods and drowsiness. You may also experience something called an “aura” roughly 30 minutes before a headache itself manifests and it may present itself as flashing lights, a blind spot that spreads slowly or tingling in the arms and/or legs. You may also experience temporary neurological symptoms such as double vision, fainting or weakness/paralysis on one side of the body. If you have never had a migraine before some of these symptoms can be extremely worrying if taken in isolation so it is important to recognize and be aware of the signs of this and take action immediately if possible. Many long-term migraine sufferers become adept at recognizing exactly when a migraine is coming on and can act accordingly to limit the pain and discomfort as much as possible.
Once the intense headache has dissipated many people experience feelings of intense ennui and tiredness, and may have aches and pains in their muscles. This can last for around two days, but may well depend upon the severity of the migraine attack just experienced.
If you think you are suffering from migraines visit a physician immediately for a check-up and verification of the condition. Many symptoms that migraines cause are also associated with a number of other ailments and proper precautions to limit any danger to yourself are key to ensuring your ongoing health and safety. As in many cases migraines can be debilitating this can affect your work or social life and can pose a major danger to yourself and others if you regularly drive a car or operate machinery. Becoming familiar with migraine symptoms and learning when a migraine will start could mean the difference between living a happy, healthy life and constantly putting yourself and your loved ones in danger.
