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Symptoms of migraine
A migraine, which is typically located on one side of the head behind the eye or in the temple, often begins as a dull ache and develops into throbbing or pounding pain. The pain often is accompanied by nausea and vomiting and sensitivity to sounds or lights.
Other symptoms may include:
- Sensitivity to odors
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Sensations of being very warm or cold
- Paleness
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Diarrhea (rare)
- Fever (rare)
While migraine pain usually sticks to one side of the head, it may shift from one side to the other, be felt in the front of the head, or be felt all over the head. Migraine pain can be mild or severe and is usually aggravated by physical activity. Many people with migraines stop what they are doing and lie down in a dark, quiet room until the headache goes away.
Most migraines last about four hours, although severe ones can last up to a week. The frequency of migraines varies widely among individuals. It is common for a migraine sufferer to get two to four headaches per month, but some people get them every few days, while others get a migraine only once or twice a year.
Cyclic migraine, as its name implies, is a form of migraine that occurs in cycles. This type of headache has also been incorrectly called cluster migraine. Headache cycles range from one to six weeks in length. During the cycles, headaches can occur daily or several times per week. The headache cycles are followed by headache-free intervals lasting weeks to months.
About 15 to 20 percent of migraine sufferers have headaches associated with "auras," neurological symptoms that sometimes precede the pain and signal that a migraine is about to begin. Migraines that occur with an aura used to be known as "classic" migraines and now are referred to as "migraines with auras." An aura can occur before, during, or after the pain and lasts 15 to 60 minutes. Visual auras include:
- Bright flashing dots or lights
- Blind spots
- Distorted vision
- Temporary vision loss
- Wavy or jagged lines
Some auras affect the other senses. These auras can be described simply as having a "funny feeling," or the person may not be able to describe the aura. Other auras may include ringing in the ears or having changes in smell, taste, or touch.
Eighty to 85 percent of migraine suffers have migraines without auras, formerly known as "common" migraines. Several hours before the onset of the headache, they may experience vague symptoms, including:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Fatigue or tiredness
This section also contains information on symptoms of rare migraines and migraine symptoms in children.
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