Migraines are a type of recurring headache disorder that can cause moderate to severe head pain along with other physical and sensory symptoms. Unlike common headaches, migraines often involve a pattern of symptoms that affect how a person feels before, during, and after the headache itself.
Migraines are considered a neurological condition, meaning they are related to how the brain and nervous system function. They can affect people of all ages and may vary widely in how often they occur and how intense they feel.
How Migraines Are Different From Regular Headaches
Not all headaches are migraines. Migraines tend to have features that set them apart from tension headaches or sinus headaches.
Common differences include:
- Pain that is throbbing or pulsating rather than dull or tight
- Pain that often affects one side of the head, though both sides can be involved
- Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells
- Nausea or stomach discomfort
- Head pain that worsens with physical activity or movement
While regular headaches may be uncomfortable, migraines can be disruptive enough to interfere with daily activities.
Common Symptoms of Migraines
Migraine symptoms can extend beyond head pain. Some people experience a combination of physical, sensory, and cognitive changes.
Common migraine-related symptoms include:
- Moderate to severe head pain
- Sensitivity to light, sound, or touch
- Nausea or vomiting
- Visual disturbances such as flashing lights or blind spots
- Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly
- Fatigue or weakness
Not everyone experiences the same symptoms, and the intensity can vary from one migraine episode to another.
The Phases of a Migraine
Migraines often follow a pattern that includes multiple stages. Not everyone experiences all stages, and some people may not notice clear transitions between them.
Prodrome Phase
This early phase can occur hours or days before head pain begins. It may involve subtle changes that signal a migraine is coming.
Possible signs include:
- Changes in mood or energy levels
- Increased yawning
- Food cravings or appetite changes
- Neck stiffness
Aura Phase
Some people experience neurological symptoms known as an aura before or during a migraine. Aura symptoms are temporary and usually affect vision or sensation.
Examples include:
- Seeing zigzag lines or flashing lights
- Temporary vision loss or blurred vision
- Tingling sensations in the face or hands
- Difficulty with speech
Many people with migraines never experience aura.
Headache Phase
This is the stage most commonly associated with migraines. Head pain may last from a few hours to several days.
During this phase, people may experience:
- Throbbing or pulsating pain
- Worsening pain with movement
- Increased sensitivity to light and sound
- Nausea or vomiting
Postdrome Phase
After the headache subsides, a recovery period may follow. Some people describe this phase as feeling “drained” or mentally foggy.
Common postdrome experiences include:
- Fatigue or low energy
- Difficulty focusing
- Mild head discomfort
- A sense of relief or emotional sensitivity
Types of Migraines
Migraines can be grouped into several types based on symptoms and patterns.
Common categories include:
- Migraine without aura
- Migraine with aura
- Chronic migraine (frequent migraine episodes over time)
- Vestibular migraine (associated with balance or dizziness symptoms)
- Menstrual migraine (linked to hormonal changes)
These categories describe patterns rather than fixed experiences.
What Is Known About Migraine Causes
The exact cause of migraines is not fully understood. Research suggests migraines involve complex interactions between the brain, nerves, and blood vessels.
Factors believed to play a role include:
- Changes in brain signaling pathways
- Temporary changes in blood flow in the brain
- Sensitivity of the nervous system
- Genetic influences
Migraines often run in families, suggesting a hereditary component.
Common Migraine Triggers
Many people with migraines notice that certain factors are associated with the onset of symptoms. These are often called triggers, though they do not directly cause migraines.
Commonly reported triggers include:
- Stress or emotional strain
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Skipping meals or dehydration
- Bright lights or loud sounds
- Strong smells
- Hormonal fluctuations
Triggers vary from person to person, and not everyone identifies clear patterns.
How Migraines Can Affect Daily Life
Migraines can impact more than just physical comfort. Recurrent episodes may affect work, school, social activities, and overall quality of life.
Possible effects include:
- Difficulty maintaining routines during episodes
- Reduced productivity or concentration
- Need for rest in quiet or dark environments
- Emotional stress related to unpredictability
Because migraines vary widely in frequency and severity, their impact differs from person to person.
Key Takeaway About Migraines
- Migraines are a neurological condition, not just a severe headache
- Symptoms can include head pain, sensory sensitivity, and nausea
- Migraines often occur in phases, though not everyone experiences all of them
- There are multiple migraine types with different symptom patterns
- Triggers and experiences vary widely between individuals