Migraine Headaches

The four stages of migraine headaches include: prodrome, aura, migraine attack, and postdrome. It is not certian that every individual with migraines will experience each stage, however, some stages can overlap with another and possibly share the same symptoms. Here’s a more detailed look at each stage:

Prodrome: Migraine symptoms can begin a couple of days before the migraine itself. Prodrome symptoms may include:

• Food cravings
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Frequent yawning
• Neck stiffness

Aura: For some people, the aura acts as a warning signal and occurs before or with the migraine attack. Examples of these conditions include:

• Visual disturbances
• Numbness or tingling on certain parts of the body
• Temporary loss of sight

Migraine Attack: This is the most severe phase and when the pain occurs. It can last anywhere from  a few hours to days. Symptoms may include:

• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness
• Pulsating and throbbing pain

Postdrome: This is the final stage of a migraine headache. During postdrome, individuals may experience:

• Mood swings
• Depression
• Lack of comprehension
• Inability to concentrate

The length and intensity of a migraine headache may differ between individuals, but understanding the general symptoms can help a person suffering from migraines soothe their conditions before they get worse.

While doctors don’t know the exact cause of migraine headaches, they are linked to changes in the brain as well as genes that are passed down in families. People can even inherit specific triggers that give a person a migraine too such as bright lights, loud noises, and weather changes.

A migraine will occur when overactive nerve cells send signals that activate the trigeminal nerve (supplies sensation to head and face). This activation will cause the brain to release certain hormones such as serotonin and calcitonin rapidly, which causes blood vessels around the brain to swell. This swelling is what creates migraine pain.

Typically, people who experience migraine headaches will have common triggers that influence their symptoms to progress. Some of these triggers may include stress, certain foods, caffeine, not sleeping enough, menstruation cycles, and skipping meals. It is important for people know their triggers so they can try to avoid them as much as possible.

Medication is effective in treating and preventing migraine headaches. However, people should consider that this is only part of the treatment. In addition to medication, the lifestyle choices that promote good health also reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches. Some examples of ways to manage and prevent migraine headaches are:

Exercising regularly allows the body to release certain chemicals that block pain signals in the brain. These chemicals also help minimize anxiety and depression, which can make migraines worse.

Sleeping well, establishing a consistent sleep schedule, and learning how to slowly unwind at the end of the night can help since migraines are sometimes triggered by a poor sleeping habits. Don’t keep naps longer than 30 minutes so they don’t interfere with nighttime sleep.

Eat healthy, well balanced meals. Don’t skip meals or fast, and try to eat at the same time each day. Some foods such as cheese, chocolate, caffeine or alcohol may be triggers, and should be eliminated or limited in a person’s diet.

Reducing and managing stress is important for preventing and helping a migraine go away. Some people may find it helpful to simplify their daily tasks, such as not squeezing too many activities into one day and having good time management. Others may use massage therapy, exercise, acupuncture, yoga, and meditation as ways to relax.