Everyone experiences migraines differently

The Stages of a Migraine

Prodrome

Up to 77% of people with migraines experience the prodrome phase, or preheadache, which signals the oncoming of a migraine. Symptoms can begin a few hours to a few days before, and they may not happen before every attack.

This is the time to avoiding triggers, practicing meditation and other relaxing exercises to help get ahead of the pain, or maybe even ward off the attack.

Feel a migraine coming on? Avoid triggers and practice relaxation techniques.

Aura

About a quarter of the people suffering from migraines also experience aura, and like the prodrome, it doesn’t happen for every attack. As a symptom of the nervous system, aura is often marked by visual disturbances like vision loss, patterns or light flashes, and numbness or tingling on one side of the body. Some people experience the symptoms of aura without getting a headache, and believe they are having a stroke.

This phase typically precedes the headache so can also be a warning of an impending attack. This can be a cue to take medication and avoid triggers.

Attack

As early as possible in this onset stage is when medication is most often recommended. Some people also benefit from taking medication during the aura phase. Medication is not recommended during the prodromal phase to balance against the risk of medication overuse.

This stage is where the severity really sets in, with pain on one or both sides of the head and even shifting around to the other side.

But pain is just one part of this phase – you can also experience nausea, difficulty sleeping, or sensitivity to light, sound and smells. The aura symptoms may even continue into this phase. Every day activities can become difficult and movement can aggravate the attack.

An attack can last up to 72 hours if untreated.

Postdrome

Also called the migraine hangover, this is actually the last phase of the migraine, and can be just as debilitating. Some people are left drained, while others may feel elated.

This is the time to focus on yourself and your well-being. Your body has just been under attack, and you need to help it recover. Drink lots of water, eat beneficial foods, rest, and do calming activities like yoga, meditation, and other relaxing exercises. Avoid triggers and stress, and be extra good to yourself.

Beneficial Foods

Nutrient-rich foods can help the migraine hangover, such as whole grains like breads and pastas, as well as lean sources of protein, like chicken and fish. However, skip the seasoning and spice. Bland foods are best when fighting the migraine hangover, because they help combat nausea.

Your body has just been under attack. You need to help it recover.

Migraine Symptom Checklist