What are the different phases of a migraine episode?
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| Phases of a migraine Copyright www.headachecare.com |
Phase 1: Prodome
This is the first phase of the migraine which usually consists of the subtle symptoms or signs of an episode. The symptoms may says a few hours or days before the migraine, so it might be difficult to immediately identify any signs leading up to the migraine. Most migraine sufferers will experience some of the prodrome symptoms before a migraine. Some of these symptoms as mentioned in the previous post are:
- Irritability and mood swings. Can include periods of euphoria and sudden drops in mood towards depression.
- Fatigue and constant yawning.
- Strange Food cravings.
- Constipation.
Phase 2: Aura
The aura can be classified as a group of visual disturbances ranging from slightly blurred vision to multicolored shimmering patterns and even visual snow.
This phase is the only phase where a suffered can consistently identify that they are having a migraine episode because of the severity of the visual disturbances. There are those that do not experience an aura at all before a migraine, but they account for a small percentage of sufferers. They however still experience the Prodrome phase. The aura may also be accompanied by tingling sensations on the arms, legs, face of the sufferer and in some cases the sensation of numbness.
Phase 3: Headache
During this time the person will experience a tremendous, throbbing headache, usually located behind the eye, or on one side of the head. Once the headache has started there is not much a suffered can do besides finding themselves a cool, quiet, dark room and basically sleeping off the headache.
It is by far one of the most severe forms of headaches that a person can experience as many pain killers have little affect on the severity of the headache. There are different forms of medications such as triptans, homeopathic herbs for treating a migraine early on during the episode.
Most people tend not to seek medical assistance because they can feel that there is little that doctors can do once the migraine is occurring. It is a myth which people need to break only and this can only happen through the correct literature and educational material out there.
For many the aura is a frightening and disruptive event.
Phase 4: Post drome
It can take many hours and sometimes even days for a headache and symptoms to subside. It depends on the physiology of the person.
After the headache has subsided, the final phase of the migraine takes over. This is referred to as the Post drome phase.
Some of the other symptoms which can be carried over from the pro dromal phase are:
- Extreme fatigure
- Depression
- Euphoria
- Lethargy
- Lack of concentration
Disclaimer: This information is provided as is and is not designed to replace the professional diagnosis and advice of a physician. Always consult your health care provider about your condition. Migraines 101 does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and by reading this blog you accepted that Migraines 101 is not responsible for any misuse or interpretation of the information contained herein.
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