A migraine is a medical condition that can be quite severe for some individuals. Pain from a migraine can drastically impact everyday activities. The side effects for every migraine sufferer can vary but some key symptoms distinguish it from other types of headaches. Women are more likely than men to suffer from migraine headaches, per Mayo Clinic. The process for identifying prevention and treatment methods for each individual can be lengthy. Individuals may have to keep a log of their food and activities in order to identify what causes the migraine. Without treatment, migraine headaches last about 72 hours.
Aura
A migraine with aura refers to a group of sensory symptoms that present themselves 10 to 30 minutes before a migraine attack, according to Women's Health. Flashing lights, zigzag lines, blind spots, numbness, tingling in the face or hands, disturbed sense of smell, taste, or touch and feeling mentally confused are all signs of an aura. Only one in five people suffering from migraine headaches will experience an aura, per Women's Health.
Pain
Distinguishing a migraine from other types of headaches may be difficult the first time it is experienced. Migraine sufferers soon learn to recognize the warning signs and can distinguish a migraine from other headaches from tension or stress. One way to do this is to identify the pain. Women's Health describes migraine pain as mild to moderate as well as moderate to severe. It can be intense pounding, throbbing and/or debilitating. The pain will be a steady ache on one or both sides of the head. Mayo Clinic points out that the pain can be so strong that physical activity is not possible or that movement makes the pain worse.
Other Side Effects
Other side effects that accompany the migraine pain include nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and/or sounds. Individuals often retreat to a dark and quiet room to rest while experiencing a headache. Sleeping through it may be difficult but even resting calmly can help reduce the symptoms. The Neurology Channel reports that a sensitivity to smells, sleep disruption and depression can occur with a migraine headache. In some specific forms of a migraine individuals may suffer from weakness, vision problems, slurred speech and a loss of consciousness, per the Neurology Channel.
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