How long do migraines usually last? Migraines can last anywhere from a few hours to several days. Learn about the different stages of a migraine episode, common symptoms, and effective treatments.

Migraine Episode Timeline

Migraine episodes can be divided into four or five distinct stages, although not all people with migraines experience each phase during every episode. The stages include:

1. Warning or Premonitory Phase: This stage can last from 1 to 24 hours before the aura or headache phase begins. Symptoms may include food cravings, increased thirst, stiff neck, irritability, fatigue, and anxiety.
2. Aura Phase: About 25% of people with migraines experience aura, which typically occurs 10 to 30 minutes before the headache. Aura symptoms can last 5 minutes to 1 hour and may include visual disturbances, numbness, weakness, dizziness, and speech or hearing problems.
3. Headache or Main Attack Phase: This is the most unpredictable stage, with episodes lasting anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Symptoms can include pulsing pain on one or both sides of the head, sensitivity to light/noise/odors, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and worsening with physical activity.
4. Resolution Phase: The headache gradually fades in intensity, and some people find that taking a nap can help relieve their symptoms.
5. Recovery or Postdrome Phase: As the headache lifts, you may experience exhaustion, moodiness, dizziness, confusion, and weakness. These symptoms may last up to a day after the headache.

What Can Trigger a Migraine?

Migraines can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:

• Hormonal changes (e.g., menstrual cycle, birth control, menopause)
• Stress or anxiety
• Certain foods (e.g., aged cheeses, processed meats, alcohol)
• Lack of sleep
• Changes in weather or barometric pressure
• Sensory stimuli (e.g., bright lights, loud sounds, strong smells)

Migraine Symptoms

The primary symptoms of a migraine include:

• Pulsing or throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head
• Sensitivity to light, noise, odors, or touch
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Lightheadedness
• Worsening pain with physical activity or other movement

When to Seek Medical Attention

If your migraine symptoms last longer than 72 hours, it’s important to seek medical attention. Prolonged or severe migraines may require prescription medication or other treatment options. Your healthcare provider can help determine the best course of action based on the frequency, duration, and severity of your migraine episodes.

Migraine Treatment Options

There are a variety of treatment options for migraines, depending on the frequency and severity of your symptoms:

• Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications: For infrequent or mild migraines, OTC pain relievers like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen may provide relief.
• Prescription Medications: For chronic or severe migraines, your healthcare provider may prescribe stronger medications to treat existing symptoms or help prevent future attacks.
• Home Remedies: Measures like resting in a dark, quiet room, applying a cold compress, and staying hydrated can also help alleviate migraine symptoms.
• Lifestyle Changes: Identifying and avoiding potential triggers, such as certain foods or stress, may help reduce the frequency and severity of your migraines.

Migraine Prevention Strategies

In addition to treatment options, there are several strategies that may help prevent or reduce the frequency of migraines:

1. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule and get enough rest
2. Exercise regularly to manage stress and improve overall health
3. Stay hydrated and eat a balanced, healthy diet
4. Identify and avoid potential migraine triggers, such as certain foods or environmental factors
5. Utilize stress management techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing
6. Consider preventive medication prescribed by your healthcare provider, if appropriate

Tracking Your Migraines

Keeping a migraine journal can be a valuable tool in understanding your symptoms and patterns. Record details such as the duration of each episode, the severity of your symptoms, any potential triggers, and the effectiveness of any treatments. This information can help your healthcare provider develop the most effective management plan for your migraines.