What Does a Migraine Feel Like?

The main symptom of a migraine is a throbbing on one side of your head. You may also feel sick to your stomach and vomit. Activity, light, noise, or odors may make the migraine worse. The pain may move from one side of your head to the other, or you may feel it on both sides at the same time. Different people have different symptoms.

You may get warning symptoms up to 24 hours before the headache starts. They are a sign that your nervous system is changing, getting ready to have a migraine. You might notice changes in smells, sights, sounds, and touch. You might have trouble thinking of words and start yawning uncontrollably. Researchers have found that carefully managing your headache during this warning period can help prevent a migraine.

As many as 15% of people who get migraines experience what is called an "aura" before the headache begins. You may see spots, wavy lines, or flashing lights. Your hands, arms, or face may tingle or feel numb. The aura usually starts about 30 minutes before the headache. Sometimes there is an aura with no pain. Most people do not have auras.

How Do I Know I Have a Migraine?

A physician can usually tell if you have a migraine by asking about your symptoms and examining you. You probably will not need lab tests, but your physician may order some if he or she thinks your symptoms are caused by another disease.

Migraine Indications Include:

• Five or more headache attacks without an aura or two with an aura.
• Headaches lasting from four to 72 hours without treatment.
• Feeling sick to your stomach, vomiting.
• Light and noise may make your headache worse.