How long does a typical migraine last. What are the four stages of a migraine attack. Which treatment options are available for migraines. How can you prevent migraine attacks.

Understanding the Duration of Migraine Attacks

Migraine attacks can be debilitating experiences that significantly impact daily life. One of the most common questions among sufferers is: how long does a migraine typically last? The duration of a migraine attack can vary considerably, ranging from 4 to 72 hours. This extended timeframe can make migraine attacks particularly challenging to manage, as they may persist for up to three days.

It’s important to note that the duration and intensity of migraine attacks can differ from person to person and even between episodes for the same individual. Factors such as triggers, lifestyle, and treatment approaches can all influence the length of a migraine attack.

The Four Stages of a Migraine Attack

To better understand the progression of a migraine, it’s crucial to recognize the four distinct stages that comprise a typical attack. These stages include:

1. Premonitory or prodrome phase
2. Aura phase
3. Headache or main attack phase
4. Recovery or postdrome phase

Each stage has its own set of symptoms and duration, contributing to the overall length of the migraine attack. Let’s explore each phase in detail.

1. Premonitory or Prodrome Phase

The premonitory phase, also known as the prodrome phase, serves as a warning signal for an impending migraine attack. This stage can last anywhere from 1 to 24 hours and is characterized by subtle changes in mood, behavior, and physical sensations.

Common symptoms during the premonitory phase include:

• Fatigue
• Mood changes, particularly irritability
• Increased thirst or food cravings
• Anxiety
• Neck stiffness

Recognizing these early warning signs can be crucial in implementing preventive measures or preparing for the onset of a migraine attack.

2. Aura Phase

The aura phase is experienced by approximately 25% of migraine sufferers. This stage typically precedes the headache phase in adults but can sometimes occur simultaneously, especially in children. Aura symptoms are primarily neurological and can affect vision, sensation, speech, and movement.

Common aura symptoms include:

• Visual disturbances (flashing lights, colored spots, zigzag lines)
• Tingling or numbness in extremities
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Weakness

The aura phase usually lasts between 5 minutes to an hour. In some cases, individuals may experience aura symptoms without the subsequent headache phase.

3. Headache or Main Attack Phase

The headache phase is often considered the most intense and debilitating stage of a migraine attack. This phase can last from a few hours to several days and is characterized by severe pain and associated symptoms.

Key symptoms during the headache phase include:

• Throbbing head pain (usually on one or both sides)
• Sensitivity to light, sound, and smells
• Nausea and vomiting
• Blurred vision
• Lightheadedness
• Loss of appetite

The intensity of symptoms during this phase can significantly impair daily activities and may require bed rest or medication for relief.

4. Recovery or Postdrome Phase

The recovery phase, also known as the postdrome phase or “migraine hangover,” occurs after the headache symptoms have subsided. This stage can last up to 48 hours and is characterized by a range of symptoms that may be opposite to those experienced during the premonitory phase.

Common postdrome symptoms include:

• Exhaustion and fatigue
• Mood changes (depression or euphoria)
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Confusion

During this phase, individuals may feel relief from the intense pain but may still experience lingering effects that impact their daily functioning.

Factors Influencing Migraine Duration

The duration of a migraine attack can be influenced by various factors. Understanding these factors can help in managing and potentially reducing the length of migraine episodes.

Trigger Identification and Management

Identifying and avoiding migraine triggers can significantly impact the frequency and duration of attacks. Common triggers include:

• Stress
• Hormonal changes
• Certain foods and drinks
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Environmental factors (bright lights, loud noises)

By keeping a migraine diary and tracking potential triggers, individuals can work towards minimizing their exposure and potentially reducing the duration of their migraine attacks.

Lifestyle Factors

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can play a crucial role in managing migraine frequency and duration. Key lifestyle factors to consider include:

• Regular exercise
• Consistent sleep schedule
• Stress management techniques (meditation, yoga)
• Proper hydration
• Balanced diet

Incorporating these habits into daily life may help reduce the severity and duration of migraine attacks.

Treatment Options for Migraine Attacks

Effective treatment of migraine attacks can help alleviate symptoms and potentially shorten the duration of episodes. Treatment options range from over-the-counter medications to prescription drugs and non-pharmacological approaches.

Over-the-Counter Medications

For mild to moderate migraine attacks, over-the-counter pain relievers may provide relief. Common options include:

• Ibuprofen
• Aspirin
• Naproxen
• Acetaminophen
• Migraine-specific formulations (e.g., Excedrin Migraine)

These medications are most effective when taken at the first sign of a migraine attack.

Prescription Medications

For more severe or frequent migraine attacks, prescription medications may be necessary. These can include:

• Triptans (e.g., sumatriptan, rizatriptan)
• Ergotamines
• Anti-nausea medications
• Preventive medications (e.g., beta-blockers, antidepressants, anti-seizure drugs)

Working closely with a healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate prescription treatment plan for individual needs.

Non-Pharmacological Approaches

In addition to medications, various non-pharmacological approaches can help manage migraine attacks and potentially reduce their duration:

• Cold or hot compresses
• Rest in a dark, quiet room
• Relaxation techniques (deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation)
• Acupressure or massage
• Staying hydrated

These methods can be used in conjunction with medication or as standalone techniques for managing milder attacks.

Preventive Strategies for Reducing Migraine Frequency and Duration

While treating acute migraine attacks is essential, implementing preventive strategies can help reduce the frequency and potentially the duration of episodes.

Lifestyle Modifications

Adopting certain lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on migraine management:

• Maintaining a regular sleep schedule
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Practicing stress-reduction techniques
• Following a balanced diet and staying hydrated
• Limiting caffeine and alcohol intake

Consistency in these areas can help reduce the likelihood of triggering a migraine attack.

Preventive Medications

For individuals experiencing frequent or severe migraine attacks, preventive medications may be prescribed. These can include:

• Beta-blockers
• Calcium channel blockers
• Antidepressants
• Anti-seizure medications
• CGRP antagonists

These medications are typically taken daily to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.

Alternative Therapies

Some individuals find relief through alternative therapies, which can complement traditional treatment approaches:

• Acupuncture
• Biofeedback
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Herbal supplements (under medical supervision)
• Mindfulness meditation

While the efficacy of these methods may vary, they can be valuable additions to a comprehensive migraine management plan.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most migraine attacks can be managed at home, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention. It’s crucial to recognize when professional help is needed to ensure proper care and prevent potential complications.

Red Flags for Immediate Medical Care

Seek emergency medical care if you experience any of the following symptoms during a migraine attack:

• Sudden, severe headache unlike previous experiences
• Headache accompanied by fever, stiff neck, or rash
• Headache following a head injury
• Persistent aura symptoms lasting more than an hour
• Neurological symptoms (weakness, speech difficulties, vision changes) that don’t resolve
• Loss of consciousness

These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition and require immediate evaluation.

Consultation with a Headache Specialist

Consider consulting a headache specialist or neurologist if:

• Your migraine attacks are becoming more frequent or severe
• Over-the-counter medications are no longer effective
• Migraine attacks significantly impact your quality of life
• You’re experiencing new or changing migraine symptoms
• You’re interested in exploring preventive treatment options

A specialist can provide a comprehensive evaluation and develop a tailored treatment plan to manage your specific migraine pattern.

The Impact of Migraine Duration on Quality of Life

The extended duration of migraine attacks can have far-reaching effects on an individual’s personal and professional life. Understanding these impacts is crucial for developing effective coping strategies and seeking appropriate support.

Personal Life Implications

Prolonged migraine attacks can significantly affect personal relationships and daily activities:

• Missed social events and family gatherings
• Difficulty maintaining regular exercise routines
• Challenges in completing household tasks
• Strain on relationships due to unpredictable symptoms
• Reduced ability to engage in hobbies and leisure activities

Developing a support network and open communication with loved ones can help manage these challenges.

Professional Impact

The workplace can be particularly challenging for individuals experiencing prolonged migraine attacks:

• Increased absenteeism or reduced productivity
• Difficulty meeting deadlines or maintaining consistent performance
• Challenges in participating in meetings or collaborative projects
• Potential career limitations due to migraine-related restrictions
• Stress related to managing work responsibilities during attacks

Open communication with employers and exploring workplace accommodations can help mitigate some of these professional challenges.

Emotional and Psychological Effects

The chronic nature of migraine attacks can take a toll on mental health:

• Increased risk of anxiety and depression
• Feelings of frustration or helplessness
• Social isolation due to unpredictable symptoms
• Stress related to managing medications and treatment plans
• Impact on self-esteem and sense of control

Addressing the emotional aspects of living with migraines through counseling or support groups can be beneficial for overall well-being.

Future Directions in Migraine Research and Treatment

The field of migraine research is continuously evolving, with promising developments on the horizon. Understanding these advancements can provide hope and insight into future treatment possibilities.

Emerging Therapies

Several innovative treatments are being explored or have recently become available:

• CGRP receptor antagonists for both acute and preventive treatment
• Neuromodulation devices for non-invasive treatment
• Gene therapy approaches targeting specific migraine pathways
• Personalized medicine based on genetic profiles
• Advanced imaging techniques for better understanding of migraine mechanisms

These emerging therapies hold promise for more effective and targeted migraine management.

Ongoing Research Initiatives

Continued research efforts are focused on various aspects of migraine:

• Identifying new genetic markers associated with migraine susceptibility
• Exploring the role of gut microbiome in migraine pathophysiology
• Investigating hormonal influences on migraine patterns
• Developing more precise diagnostic tools for different migraine subtypes
• Studying the long-term effects of chronic migraine on brain structure and function

These research initiatives aim to deepen our understanding of migraines and pave the way for more effective treatments.

The Role of Technology in Migraine Management

Advancements in technology are playing an increasingly important role in migraine care:

• Smartphone apps for tracking migraine patterns and triggers
• Wearable devices for monitoring physiological changes associated with migraines
• Telemedicine platforms for remote consultation with headache specialists
• Virtual reality applications for pain management and relaxation
• Artificial intelligence for predicting migraine onset and optimizing treatment plans

These technological innovations offer new avenues for personalized migraine management and improved quality of life for sufferers.

How Long Do Migraines Last? Complete Timeline, Causes, Treatment

The dreaded migraine attack. If you’ve had one (or several), then you know. They’re no joke and often feel like they last forever. But how long does the average migraine attack actually last? And is there a way to shorten it?

Let’s find out.

While there’s no crystal ball that can predict the length of an individual migraine attack, on average one can last anywhere from 4 to 72 hours. That’s right: up to 3 freakin’ days. (That’s longer than Britney’s 2004 marriage to her childhood friend Jason Alexander.)

Migraine attacks happen in four stages. The stages vary in length — you may spend more time in one stage than another or even skip a stage. Just as every person is unique, so is every migraine attack.

The four common stages are:

1. Premonitory or prodrome phase
2. Aura
3. Headache or “main attack” (followed by a resolution period, which isn’t an actual phase)
4. Recovery or postdrome phase

Share on PinterestIllustration: Maya Chastain

1.

Premonitory or prodrome phase (aka the “warning phase”)

You may experience some warning signs leading up to the actual headache portion of a migraine attack.

These symptoms are often completely unrelated to headaches, so they can be difficult to identify. They typically last anywhere from 1 to 24 hours before you move on to the next phase.

Warning symptoms include:

• fatigue
• mood changes, such as irritability
• increased thirst or cravings for certain foods
• anxiety
• stiff neck

2. Aura phase

Now, don’t think we’re trying to get all woo-woo here (though there’s nothing wrong with a little woo!). The aura phase is a legit occurrence that affects up to 25 percent of people who experience migraine attacks.

Auras have a wide variety of neurological symptoms, which generally happen before the main attack in adults. But they can sometimes happen at the same time as the headache portion of the migraine attack, especially in children.

If you’re experiencing an aura, you might notice:

• flashing lights
• colored or dark spots
• zigzag lines
• sparkles (or “stars”)

You may also feel:

• tingling or numbness
• dizziness
• anxiety
• confusion
• weakness

Auras can also impact your hearing or speech and, in rare instances, cause fainting or partial paralysis. Aura symptoms typically last anywhere from 5 minutes to an hour and will sometimes occur without a headache ever happening.

3. The headache (or main attack)

“The main attack” sounds like a cool name for a wrestler, and the pain can certainly feel like you’re being hit over the head with a chair, but this is actually the crescendo of a migraine attack.

Because many attacks don’t include aura symptoms, this stage can happen right after the premonitory phase. You’ll likely have the same symptoms in the headache phase whether or not you experience an aura beforehand.

Headache phase symptoms are:

• sensitivity to noise, light, odor, or touch
• throbbing head pain on one or both sides
• increased pain caused by movement or physical activity
• blurred vision
• nausea or vomiting
• lightheadedness
• loss of appetite

This is the most unpredictable stage and can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Symptoms can become so severe that you may be unable to do daily activities like work, exercise, or hobbies.

3A. Resolution period

There’s some debate as to whether this counts as an official phase. The resolution period is when the main headache symptoms fade.

More research is needed, but a study in the ’80s suggested that sleep could play an important role in dissolving symptoms and moving into the recovery phase. Even just a couple of hours of rest can help knock out that headache.

4. Recovery phase or postdrome (also known as the “migraine hangover”)

The worst is over, but this phase can come with a variety of symptoms. You may notice effects opposite of those you experienced in the warning phase. For instance, after feeling like you couldn’t stand the sight of food for hours or days, you may suddenly be starving.

These symptoms may last a day or two:

• exhaustion and fatigue
• moodiness
• depression
• euphoria
• weakness
• dizziness
• confusion

While over-the-counter meds like ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen, or acetaminophen (or migraine-specific options like Excedrin) may work wonders for the occasional migraine attack, they aren’t one-size-fits-all.

Some attacks require something a bit more powerful, while others can be defeated through the use of non-medicinal home remedies.

Here’s a look at common treatment options.

Prescription meds

For more severe migraine attacks, your doctor may prescribe pain relievers like ergot, opioids, or triptans as well as medications to treat nausea.

If you have frequent migraine attacks, you and your doctor may want to discuss preventive measures. Some prescription meds can help keep future attacks at bay, including:

• anitconvulsants
• antidepressants
• calcium channel blockers
• beta-blockers
• CGRP antagonists

Home remedies

There are several ways to deal with your migraine at home without medication. Here are some strategies to try:

• Avoid harsh lighting and loud sounds. Find a quiet space, dim the lights, draw the shades, and try to relax.
• Use pressure points. Applying pressure to certain areas of your body or to your temples may help relieve pain.
• Drink water! Hydration is important all the time, but it can be especially critical during a migraine attack.
• Reach for essential oils. Lavender and peppermint are great soothing options for migraine pain.
• Add a cool compress. The cold helps narrow your blood vessels and ease pain.
• Try a little caffeine. Caffeine constricts blood vessels and is commonly used to treat headaches. Research shows caffeine can have powerful effects (both positive and negative) on migraine attacks. Too much or too little caffeine can cause headaches, but if you find the sweet spot, it can ease pain and even prevent pain from returning.
• Limit screen time. The light from your digital devices can make symptoms worse, so unplug and unwind.

Migraine attacks have many possible triggers, so determining your specific triggers could help in prevention. Some common triggers:

• stress
• certain meds
• irregular sleep patterns
• hormonal changes
• changes in the weather
• certain foods
• alcohol
• caffeine
• head injuries

First migraine attack? The home remedies or OTC meds mentioned above may do the trick. But make an appointment with your healthcare provider if:

• you’re over 40 and this is your first migraine attack
• your symptoms last longer than 72 hours
• symptoms occur after you’ve experienced a head injury

If you’re having frequent migraine attacks, scheduling time with your doc may help. Together, you can work on a treatment plan to help prevent attacks, help soothe them at the start, or simply make them more bearable.

tl;dr

One thing anyone who’s had a migraine attack can agree on: They feel like they last forever.

In reality, a typical migraine attack can last anywhere from 4 to 72 hours and may include some or all of these phases:

• warning (premonitory) phase
• aura (not everyone experiences this one!)
• headache (aka the “main attack”), followed by a resolution period (which isn’t an actual phase)
• recovery phase (or the “migraine hangover”)

The phases vary in length, and the headache phase itself typically lasts the longest (bummer).

There are a variety of methods to relieve or prevent migraine symptoms, including OTC meds, prescription pain relievers, and home remedies. You can work with your healthcare provider to find the best course of action for you.

If you experience your first migraine attack after age 40, or if an attack lasts longer than 72 hours or pops up after a head injury, call your doc ASAP.

Was this helpful?

How Long Do Migraines Last? Complete Timeline, Causes, Treatment

The dreaded migraine attack. If you’ve had one (or several), then you know. They’re no joke and often feel like they last forever. But how long does the average migraine attack actually last? And is there a way to shorten it?

Let’s find out.

While there’s no crystal ball that can predict the length of an individual migraine attack, on average one can last anywhere from 4 to 72 hours. That’s right: up to 3 freakin’ days. (That’s longer than Britney’s 2004 marriage to her childhood friend Jason Alexander.)

Migraine attacks happen in four stages. The stages vary in length — you may spend more time in one stage than another or even skip a stage. Just as every person is unique, so is every migraine attack.

The four common stages are:

1. Premonitory or prodrome phase
2. Aura
3. Headache or “main attack” (followed by a resolution period, which isn’t an actual phase)
4. Recovery or postdrome phase

Share on PinterestIllustration: Maya Chastain

1.

Premonitory or prodrome phase (aka the “warning phase”)

You may experience some warning signs leading up to the actual headache portion of a migraine attack.

These symptoms are often completely unrelated to headaches, so they can be difficult to identify. They typically last anywhere from 1 to 24 hours before you move on to the next phase.

Warning symptoms include:

• fatigue
• mood changes, such as irritability
• increased thirst or cravings for certain foods
• anxiety
• stiff neck

2. Aura phase

Now, don’t think we’re trying to get all woo-woo here (though there’s nothing wrong with a little woo!). The aura phase is a legit occurrence that affects up to 25 percent of people who experience migraine attacks.

Auras have a wide variety of neurological symptoms, which generally happen before the main attack in adults. But they can sometimes happen at the same time as the headache portion of the migraine attack, especially in children.

If you’re experiencing an aura, you might notice:

• flashing lights
• colored or dark spots
• zigzag lines
• sparkles (or “stars”)

You may also feel:

• tingling or numbness
• dizziness
• anxiety
• confusion
• weakness

Auras can also impact your hearing or speech and, in rare instances, cause fainting or partial paralysis. Aura symptoms typically last anywhere from 5 minutes to an hour and will sometimes occur without a headache ever happening.

3. The headache (or main attack)

“The main attack” sounds like a cool name for a wrestler, and the pain can certainly feel like you’re being hit over the head with a chair, but this is actually the crescendo of a migraine attack.

Because many attacks don’t include aura symptoms, this stage can happen right after the premonitory phase. You’ll likely have the same symptoms in the headache phase whether or not you experience an aura beforehand.

Headache phase symptoms are:

• sensitivity to noise, light, odor, or touch
• throbbing head pain on one or both sides
• increased pain caused by movement or physical activity
• blurred vision
• nausea or vomiting
• lightheadedness
• loss of appetite

This is the most unpredictable stage and can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Symptoms can become so severe that you may be unable to do daily activities like work, exercise, or hobbies.

3A. Resolution period

There’s some debate as to whether this counts as an official phase. The resolution period is when the main headache symptoms fade.

More research is needed, but a study in the ’80s suggested that sleep could play an important role in dissolving symptoms and moving into the recovery phase. Even just a couple of hours of rest can help knock out that headache.

4. Recovery phase or postdrome (also known as the “migraine hangover”)

The worst is over, but this phase can come with a variety of symptoms. You may notice effects opposite of those you experienced in the warning phase. For instance, after feeling like you couldn’t stand the sight of food for hours or days, you may suddenly be starving.

These symptoms may last a day or two:

• exhaustion and fatigue
• moodiness
• depression
• euphoria
• weakness
• dizziness
• confusion

While over-the-counter meds like ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen, or acetaminophen (or migraine-specific options like Excedrin) may work wonders for the occasional migraine attack, they aren’t one-size-fits-all.

Some attacks require something a bit more powerful, while others can be defeated through the use of non-medicinal home remedies.

Here’s a look at common treatment options.

Prescription meds

For more severe migraine attacks, your doctor may prescribe pain relievers like ergot, opioids, or triptans as well as medications to treat nausea.

If you have frequent migraine attacks, you and your doctor may want to discuss preventive measures. Some prescription meds can help keep future attacks at bay, including:

• anitconvulsants
• antidepressants
• calcium channel blockers
• beta-blockers
• CGRP antagonists

Home remedies

There are several ways to deal with your migraine at home without medication. Here are some strategies to try:

• Avoid harsh lighting and loud sounds. Find a quiet space, dim the lights, draw the shades, and try to relax.
• Use pressure points. Applying pressure to certain areas of your body or to your temples may help relieve pain.
• Drink water! Hydration is important all the time, but it can be especially critical during a migraine attack.
• Reach for essential oils. Lavender and peppermint are great soothing options for migraine pain.
• Add a cool compress. The cold helps narrow your blood vessels and ease pain.
• Try a little caffeine. Caffeine constricts blood vessels and is commonly used to treat headaches. Research shows caffeine can have powerful effects (both positive and negative) on migraine attacks. Too much or too little caffeine can cause headaches, but if you find the sweet spot, it can ease pain and even prevent pain from returning.
• Limit screen time. The light from your digital devices can make symptoms worse, so unplug and unwind.

Migraine attacks have many possible triggers, so determining your specific triggers could help in prevention. Some common triggers:

• stress
• certain meds
• irregular sleep patterns
• hormonal changes
• changes in the weather
• certain foods
• alcohol
• caffeine
• head injuries

First migraine attack? The home remedies or OTC meds mentioned above may do the trick. But make an appointment with your healthcare provider if:

• you’re over 40 and this is your first migraine attack
• your symptoms last longer than 72 hours
• symptoms occur after you’ve experienced a head injury

If you’re having frequent migraine attacks, scheduling time with your doc may help. Together, you can work on a treatment plan to help prevent attacks, help soothe them at the start, or simply make them more bearable.

tl;dr

One thing anyone who’s had a migraine attack can agree on: They feel like they last forever.

In reality, a typical migraine attack can last anywhere from 4 to 72 hours and may include some or all of these phases:

• warning (premonitory) phase
• aura (not everyone experiences this one!)
• headache (aka the “main attack”), followed by a resolution period (which isn’t an actual phase)
• recovery phase (or the “migraine hangover”)

The phases vary in length, and the headache phase itself typically lasts the longest (bummer).

There are a variety of methods to relieve or prevent migraine symptoms, including OTC meds, prescription pain relievers, and home remedies. You can work with your healthcare provider to find the best course of action for you.

If you experience your first migraine attack after age 40, or if an attack lasts longer than 72 hours or pops up after a head injury, call your doc ASAP.

Was this helpful?

symptoms and causes of frequent headaches

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Headache is one of the most painful, it leaves an imprint on the quality of our life, reduces efficiency, depresses mood. The highest degree of headache is observed precisely with migraine. How to suspect and recognize migraine? When should you see a doctor? What is the danger of the disease and how to treat it? Can migraines be avoided? So many questions, let’s look at the answers.

Symptoms of a migraine

First, let’s understand what is a migraine? Migraine is a chronic disease of the nervous system, which manifests itself with periodic paroxysmal headache. It is customary to distinguish between migraine with and without aura. Aura is a special subjective state in which a person can feel visual (flies before the eyes, flashes of light, blurred vision), taste, tactile (numbness of a part of the body, goosebumps, tingling), motor (decrease in muscle strength of the limbs) hallucinations. The condition lasts from 5 to 60 minutes and precedes the onset of a headache.

Description of headache specific to migraine:

• Paroxysmal, throbbing
• Unilateral (on the right or left side of the head)
• Medium or high intensity
• Strengthens when moving
• May be accompanied by nausea or vomiting
• Gets stronger when exposed to noise, bright light

Since we are all individual, the symptoms may differ slightly in each case – to make a diagnosis, it is better to contact a specialist at the St. Nicholas Clinic for a comprehensive examination and appropriate treatment.

Causes of frequent headaches

The exact causes of a migraine attack are unknown. However, many years of observation made it possible to identify a number of factors that can provoke pain:

• Physical and emotional overstrain
• Constant stress
• Insufficient sleep
• Chronic fatigue
• Past head injuries
• Consumption of foods rich in thiamine (wine, chocolate, coffee, cheese, nuts, smoked meats)
• Alcohol and smoking
• Atmospheric pressure fluctuations, temperatures
• Action of sharp sound, light, smells
• Hypothermia or overheating
• Hormonal changes: signs of migraine are more common in women (during pregnancy, during puberty, before or during menstruation)
• Flights (especially jet lag)
• Heredity
• Taking certain medications (especially hormones)
• Hunger or insufficient food intake

Types and complications of pathology

The most common classification has already been mentioned above: classic migraine (with typical aura) and without aura are distinguished.
The frequency of seizures is:

• Episodic migraine – worries rarely goes away without consequences
• Chronic headache – when attacks last more than 15 days per month for 3 or more months

According to the predominance of clinical signs, migraine is divided into:

• Ocular – accompanied by visual impairment
• Ophthalmoplegic – double vision occurs, distortion of objects
• Retinal – total or partial loss of vision in one eye
• Basilar – manifested by dizziness, incomprehensibility of speech, ringing in the ears
• Aphatic – easily confused with a stroke, the disease is accompanied by similar speech disorders
• Abdominal – associated with abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
• “Headless” – without the typical headache, but with the aura of

Status migraine is distinguished separately – a condition when 2 or more attacks occur in a row (the interval between them is less than 4 hours) or the pain lasts more than 3 days. Such a state is dangerous by the development of severe complications:

• Dehydration, exhaustion due to vomiting
• Cerebral edema
• Convulsions
• Myocardial infarction
• Stroke

It is very important to seek the help of a neurologist in a timely manner in order to prevent the development of the above conditions.

Features of treatment and methods of prevention

Unfortunately, there is no 100% cure for migraine – a doctor can only relieve attacks and reduce their frequency. Prevention of migraine attacks can be pharmacological and non-pharmacological. The quality of migraine treatment primarily depends on the patient himself – how conscientiously he will follow the recommendations of the doctor, reconsider his lifestyle, identify and eliminate provoking factors.

To do this, it is advisable to keep a diary in which to write down the routine and your feelings during the day – this will help to identify triggers that provoke a migraine attack.
It is also very important to adjust the diet – stop drinking alcohol, foods rich in biogenic amines (cheese, nuts, chocolate, strong tea, coffee, etc.). Eating habits are also important in the nature of nutrition – you should not starve for a long time or overeat.

With regards to lifestyle, the ratio of sleep and wakefulness should be adjusted here – both rest and exercise in excess can adversely affect health. Only a doctor can prescribe medications – do not try to choose a drug for stopping a migraine attack on your own. Of the medicines, analgesics (NSAIDs, triptans, dehydroergotamine) have proven themselves well. The doctor will be able to prescribe the most suitable drug for you and adjust its dosage.

It is important to take the drug as soon as possible when an attack occurs – if more than an hour passes, the effectiveness of the treatment will be much less. Peace (physical, emotional), the absence of loud sounds and bright lights will help ease the course of a headache. If you have the slightest suspicion of a migraine, immediately contact the Clinic of St. Nicholas! And be healthy!

I would like to remind you that you should not self-medicate. Entrust your health to the neurologists of St. Nicholas Clinic. The doctors of our clinic apply an individual approach to the patient and solve each of his problems.

Book an appointment with a neurologist

Article written by a neurologist at St. Nicholas Clinic

Pepper
Victoria Yurievna

Neurologist, doctor of the second category,

work experience 10 years

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Migraine with aura: description of the disease, causes, symptoms, cost of treatment in Moscow

Migraine with aura differs from the classical form of the disease by the appearance of precursors a few minutes or an hour before an attack in the form of visual impairment, hearing, coordination of movements or general well-being. To determine the disease, an additional examination regarding the symptoms of the aura is required. The treatment achieves relief of the attack that has begun and the maximum lengthening of the period until the next one.

Pathology accounts for about a quarter of all cases of this disorder. Like the classic migraine without aura, it is more common in women, especially in their childbearing years. The aura lasts a maximum of 60 minutes and disappears with the onset of an attack. If it is prolonged, which does not happen often, then with the onset of pain it persists and may be present for a significant time. In some patients, pain after the aura does not always occur. In this case, after the aura passes, the state is completely restored. If the aura persists for more than 7 days, then there is a high probability that the patient has a complication of the pathology and has developed a migraine infarction. It is detected by examination using neuroimaging methods.

The frequency of migraine attacks with aura is individual for each patient. On average, there are from 2 to 8 attacks per month, but cases are also diagnosed when the disease manifests itself only 2 times a year or, conversely, torments a person almost constantly, making it impossible to lead a normal life and leading to disability. Most often, the disease first manifests itself at the age of 16 to 20 years, when there is an active hormonal change in the body. The disease is hereditary, and the probability of encountering a problem in a child is 90% if both of his parents suffer from the disorder.

The most common is the visual aura. In this case, symptoms from other systems usually do not occur, and the patient is only disturbed by visual disturbances.

Causes

The main reason for the occurrence of an attack is a short-term oxygen starvation of the brain, which develops due to spasm of the vessels that feed it. What directly causes the disease itself has not yet been precisely established. As the main, most likely causes, doctors call hereditary predisposition and hormonal changes.

There are quite a lot of factors that can cause the development of an attack. They are well known to physicians. The patient himself can determine what causes him to worsen his condition. Most often, attack provocateurs are:

• drinking large portions of coffee;

• severe stress;

• nervous tension;

• emotional overstrain;

• lack of sleep;

• heavy physical work;

• prolonged exposure to stuffiness;

• prolonged exposure to the sun;

• sudden jump in atmospheric pressure;

• rapid change of weather or climate;

• start taking oral hormonal contraceptives or their abrupt cancellation;

• onset of menstruation;

• certain foods, especially those high in caffeine, and hot and spicy foods;

• unauthorized use of vasodilators;

• prolonged exposure to flickering light;

• prolonged exposure to bright light;

• drinking a large portion of alcohol.

Without a provoking factor, the development of migraine with aura is also possible, but somewhat less frequently. Moreover, in most of these cases, the factor that caused the headache took place, but simply remained unnoticed. Identification of provocateurs of seizures is important for prescribing the correct therapy and reducing the negative impact of the disease on the body.

In children, the pathology is not common, but may occur. It is not so easy to determine which factor caused a negative phenomenon in a child. This is due to the fact that it is not uncommon for a patient who is passionate about his work to not immediately notice the appearance of an aura if it is not very pronounced. As a result, migraines can sometimes be misdiagnosed as simple migraines.

Patients are advised to keep a diary of headache, which will note the factors that acted before the attack developed. Ideally, write down in such a diary everything that happened on the day of the attack: from how long the night’s sleep lasted to the foods that were eaten. Such records for monitoring standing are necessary, as they allow a person to better analyze what is happening to him, and also help the doctor to assess the patient’s condition.

Types of aura

Most often, the patient develops a visual aura. However, besides it, the presence of other harbingers of an attack is also possible. Doctors distinguish the following five forms of the phenomenon:

• visual – the most common aura. The patient has visual disturbances and a feeling of blindness in one or both eyes at once. In severe cases, this phenomenon can lead to the development of a panic state;

• Sensitive aura – affects the upper part of the body on one side. The person experiences numbness, goosebumps, or tingling. Violations begin with the fingers and, rising along the arm, reach the head and even capture the tongue and lips;

• movement disorders – with this form, acute muscle weakness develops in the arm or leg, and less often immediately in the upper and lower limbs, before the attack. In especially severe cases, the entire half of the body can be affected at once, and in exceptional cases, the development of reversible paresis of the leg or arm is noted;

• speech disorders – it turns out to be difficult. The patient speaks indistinctly, it is not easy for him to compose a phrase so that it is meaningful. Finding words is difficult. Additionally, a person may lose the ability to recognize numbers and letters for some time;

• mixed – an infrequent form in which there is a simultaneous development of two or more types of aura, due to which the patient’s condition is quite severe.

Sometimes the aura can cause even more discomfort in a person than the attack of pain itself, as it disrupts normal contact with the world. With this phenomenon, the doctor selects the patient for additional treatment and stronger anti-migraine drugs, so that when signs of aura begin to appear, they can be removed in a short time.

Some patients develop the so-called decapitation migraine, in which the aura is not followed by an attack of pain. With such a violation, treatment will be selected purely individually, depending on the main symptoms and how the body reacts to a particular drug.

Diagnostics

Proper diagnostics is very important when drawing up a treatment regimen for a patient, because otherwise there is no way to choose the most effective drug in a short time. The neurologist deals with the treatment of the problem, and in his absence, you need to contact the therapist. Self-treatment for pathology is extremely dangerous and is categorically not recommended.

The main criteria for the diagnosis of migraine with aura are:

• presence of manifestations of one or more types of aura;

• aura symptoms disappear before pain begins;

• clinical manifestations of an attack are characteristic of migraine;

• aura symptoms develop progressively and persist for up to 1 hour.

Due to the fact that migraine with aura has symptoms similar to a number of severe pathologies, a complete examination is prescribed, the purpose of which is to rule out other disorders. The main diagnostic procedures in this case will be:

• magnetic resonance or computed tomography;

• X-ray of the brain;

• dopplerography;

• electroencephalography;

• ophthalmological examination;

• neurological examination.

In rare cases, tumor markers may be required.

After receiving all the information from the examination, studying the patient’s complaints and, if any, a headache diary, as well as an anamnesis, the doctor makes a final diagnosis and develops a specific treatment regimen.