I Know My Migraine is Coming When …

Migraines can be unpredictable, but many people experience warning signs before an attack. These warning signs, also known as prodrome or premonitory symptoms, give you an early indication that a migraine is about to happen. By recognizing these signs, you can take proactive measures to manage and minimize the impact of migraines. Here are some common signs that may indicate the onset of a migraine:

Aura or Visual Disturbances

One common warning sign of a migraine is experiencing aura or visual disturbances. This can include seeing flashing lights, zigzag lines, blurred vision, or sensing a blind spot in your field of vision. These visual changes are caused by temporary disturbances in the brain’s electrical activity and usually last for about 20 minutes to an hour before the migraine headache begins.

For example, some individuals may describe seeing flickering or shimmering lights, similar to the effect of looking at sunlight through a broken window. Others may see geometric patterns or experience tunnel vision. These visual disturbances can be disorienting and may serve as a reliable indicator that a migraine is imminent.

Mood and Behavioral Changes

Sudden changes in mood or behavior can also be indicative of an impending migraine. Many people report feeling irritable, agitated, anxious, or depressed before a migraine attack. Difficulty concentrating and a general sense of unease or restlessness are also common. These changes in mood and behavior are believed to be connected to the underlying neurological changes that occur during a migraine.

For example, you may find yourself becoming more easily frustrated or agitated in situations that normally wouldn’t bother you. Alternatively, you may notice increased anxiety or a feeling of sadness that seems to come out of nowhere. These mood changes can be unsettling but can serve as a crucial signal that a migraine is approaching.

Throbbing Headache Pain

One of the most recognizable signs of a migraine is the throbbing or pulsating pain on one side of the head. The pain gradually intensifies and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and an increased sensitivity to light, sound, or smell. The intensity of the pain can vary from person to person and from one migraine attack to another.

For instance, the throbbing pain may start as a mild discomfort and then escalate to a debilitating headache that interferes with your daily activities. The pain may worsen with physical activity or exposure to triggers such as bright lights or strong smells. Understanding the unique characteristics of your headache pain can help you identify the beginning stages of a migraine.

Sensitivity to Light, Sound, or Smell

Many individuals experience increased sensitivity to light, sound, or smell before a migraine. Bright lights can become painful or uncomfortable, loud noises can be overwhelming, and strong odors can be bothersome. These sensitivities are known as photophobia, phonophobia, and osmophobia, respectively, and they often accompany the headache phase of a migraine.

For example, you may find yourself squinting or shielding your eyes from even moderate light levels. Everyday sounds, such as the buzzing of a refrigerator or the sound of traffic, can become intolerable. Similarly, pleasant smells like perfume or cooking aromas may suddenly become overpowering and cause discomfort. Paying attention to these sensory changes can help you recognize the signs of an impending migraine.

Fatigue or Tiredness

Feeling fatigued or excessively tired is another warning sign reported by migraine sufferers. Energy levels drop, and both physical and mental exhaustion can set in. Some individuals may have difficulty staying awake or focused, while others may feel a general lack of energy and motivation. This fatigue can occur in the days leading up to a migraine attack.

For instance, you may wake up feeling tired even after a full night’s sleep or find yourself yawning excessively throughout the day. Mental tasks may feel more challenging than usual, and you may find it difficult to summon the motivation to engage in activities. Recognizing these signs of fatigue can help you prepare for an upcoming migraine episode.

Changes in Appetite or Food Cravings

Many individuals experience changes in appetite or food cravings before a migraine. Some lose interest in food altogether, while others develop cravings for specific foods, especially chocolate or caffeine. Nausea or vomiting related to food may also occur. These changes in appetite and food preferences are believed to be related to the fluctuations in brain chemistry that occur during a migraine.

For example, you may find that suddenly the thought of eating makes you feel nauseous, or certain foods that you usually enjoy now seem less appealing. On the other hand, you may have an uncontrollable craving for a particular type of food, such as sweets or salty snacks. Being aware of these changes in appetite can help you anticipate and manage your migraine symptoms.

Muscle Stiffness or Tension

Muscle stiffness or tension, particularly in the neck and shoulders, can be a warning sign of an impending migraine. This tension may make it difficult to move or turn the head, and some individuals may experience muscle spasms or contractions. The exact connection between muscle tension and migraines is not fully understood, but it may be related to the activation of pain-sensitive nerves in the muscles.

For example, you may notice that your neck feels tight and that it’s challenging to move it freely. Your shoulders may become increasingly tense and uncomfortable, potentially leading to headaches or exacerbating existing migraine symptoms. Recognizing these muscle-related warning signs can help you take steps to relieve tension and potentially prevent the onset of a full-blown migraine.

Trouble Sleeping or Changes in Sleep Patterns

Changes in sleep patterns are common before a migraine attack. Some individuals may struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep, while others may wake up earlier than usual. Restless or disturbed sleep is also frequently reported. Disruptions in sleep can further contribute to the development of migraines, as both sleep disturbances and migraines are thought to be influenced by similar neurological pathways.

For instance, you may find it challenging to relax and fall asleep, or you may wake up multiple times during the night. Alternatively, you may discover that you consistently wake up earlier than your usual waking time and find it difficult to return to sleep. Recognizing these changes in sleep patterns can alert you to the possibility of an impending migraine.

Sense of Anticipation or Premonition

Many individuals report a sense of anticipation or premonition just before a migraine attack. They may have a gut feeling that a migraine is on its way or experience a general sense of unease or uneasiness. Some people even notice changes in their body or physical sensations, such as increased yawning or neck stiffness before a migraine. The exact cause of these premonitory symptoms is still unknown.

For example, you may suddenly feel the need to yawn frequently, even if you’re not tired, or you may notice an unusual stiffness in your neck or shoulders. A general feeling of restlessness or discomfort in your body may also accompany this sense of premonition. Being attuned to these pre-migraine sensations can help you take early action to manage your migraine symptoms.

Recognizing the warning signs that precede a migraine attack can empower you to take preventive measures and manage your symptoms more effectively. By making note of these symptoms and patterns, you can develop strategies to reduce your exposure to triggers and mitigate the impact of migraines on your daily life.

Tracking Migraines for Better Management

If you want to gain a better understanding of your migraines and their impact on your life, tracking your symptoms and migraine attacks can provide valuable insights. By using a migraine tracking app or keeping a diary, you can record the date and time of each attack, the duration and intensity of the pain, the symptoms experienced, any triggers or potential triggers, and the impact on your daily activities. Regularly reviewing and analyzing this information can help you identify patterns and triggers, make informed decisions about your treatment plan, and monitor the effectiveness of any interventions.

Learn more about migraine tracking for effective treatment and how it can assist you in managing your migraines and improving your overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is it important to recognize the warning signs of a migraine?

Recognizing the warning signs allows you to take proactive measures before a migraine attack, such as avoiding triggers or starting treatment early. This may help reduce the severity and duration of the migraine.

2. Do all people with migraines experience warning signs?

No, not everyone with migraines experiences warning signs. Some individuals may have migraines without aura or prodrome symptoms.

3. How can tracking migraine symptoms help?

Tracking symptoms can help identify patterns and triggers, which can assist in developing personalized treatment plans. It also allows you to monitor the effectiveness of interventions and communicate more effectively with your healthcare provider.