Migraine headache symptoms

Typical migraine headache symptoms

Prior to a migraine, sufferers often notice warning signals that an episode is on the way. About 40% of sufferers notice certain cravings or lethargy a day or two in advance. They are then able to take action to try to head off the attack. Other sufferers experience sensory symptoms – known as the ‘aura’ - usually in the hour preceding the headache.

The aura
- Visual disturbances – wavy lines, flashing lights, blind spots (scotoma)
- Dizziness
- Numbness
- Slurred or muddled speech
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhoea

The headache phase
- Thumping or throbbing headache
- Pain on one side (may swap sides)
- Pain in the sinuses or neck
- Dehydration, thirst
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia), noise (phonophobia) and smell (osmophobia)
- Cold sensation
- Pins and needles
- Temporary numbness on the affected side
- Inability to think clearly or perform normal activities
- Loss of concentration
- Lack of co-ordination

Post headache
- A feeling of being ‘washed-out’
- Fatigue
- Poor concentration
- Either lethargic or full of energy and revitalised

At present there is no medical test or examination that can detect migraine. However your doctor is able to use a series of questions (see our symptoms checklist) to determine whether or not your suffer from this condition. You can then plan the best way to treat and manage your migraines.