Migraines are more than severe headaches and are complex neurological conditions that can impact various aspects of a person’s life. While throbbing head pain is the hallmark of a migraine attack, several lesser-known signs and symptoms often go unnoticed. Recognizing them can help one to seek appropriate treatment and potentially improve one’s quality of life. Here are the top ten signs of migraines that should prompt one to seek immediate medical attention.
Prodromal symptoms
Before the throbbing pain kicks in, many migraine patients experience prodromal symptoms, like warning signals that a migraine attack is imminent. Some may experience these symptoms hours or days before the migraine hits. These symptoms include mood changes, irritability, food cravings, increased thirst, yawning, and frequent urination.
Visual disturbances
Visual disturbances can include temporary vision loss, watery eyes, double vision, blind spots, or seeing zig-zag lines. Less commonly, they can also cause tingling in the face or limbs, difficulty speaking, or confusion. These symptoms typically last a few minutes and precede the headache phase.
Nausea and vomiting
While nausea and vomiting are recognized migraine symptoms, they often receive less attention than head pain. Some individuals may experience severe nausea without a headache, known as abdominal migraine. These gastrointestinal symptoms can be debilitating and may lead to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment.
Cognitive impairment
Migraine attacks can impact cognitive function in ways that extend beyond the headache. Many migraineurs report experiencing “brain fog.” This can include difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and reduced mental clarity.
Neck pain
Neck pain, stiffness, and muscle tension are lesser-known symptoms that can accompany a migraine. The muscles in the neck and shoulders may become tense or painful during an attack, sometimes even before the headache sets in.
Fatigue
Migraines can be exhausting. Even after the headache subsides, individuals may feel drained for extended periods. This lingering fatigue can interfere with work, social activities, and overall quality of life.
Sensory sensitivity
Sensitivity to sensory stimuli is a well-known feature of migraines. Some people with migraines become hypersensitive to light and sound during an attack. Strong odors or certain foods may also trigger discomfort or worsen existing symptoms.
Emotional changes
Migraine attacks often lead to emotional changes, such as irritability, anxiety, or depression. The pain and other symptoms can take a toll on a person’s mood and emotional well-being. Recognizing these emotional shifts as part of the migraine experience is crucial for addressing the full spectrum of the condition.
