Posted on Feb 13, 2009

Migraine can have five steps: Prodrome: bad mood, changing of sensation, muscle tension, tiredness, exhaustion, or lack of energy; Aura:a visual disturbance, Some migraineurs develop blind spots, Headache: 60-70% migraine happens on only one-side headache, but 30-40% patients have both-side headache, Throbbing pain may be present. More than 80% of migraineurs feel nauseated, and some vomit. About 70% become sensitive to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia). This phase may last 4-72 hours. Headache termination: Usually goes away when you sleep Postdrome:  inability to eat, problems with concentration, or fatigue may linger after the pain has disappeared. If you have any of the following headache symptoms seek medical care immediately: A sudden, new severe headache A headache that is associated with neurological (nerve) symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, sudden loss of balance or falling, numbness or tingling, paralysis, speech difficulties, mental confusion, seizures, personality changes/inappropriate behavior, or vision changes (blurry vision, double vision or blind spots) Headache with a fever, shortness of breath, stiff neck, or rash Headache pain that awakens you at night Headaches with severe nausea and vomiting Headaches that occur after a head injury or accident Getting a new type of headache after age 55 The following migraine or headache symptoms do not require urgent care, but you should contact your doctor if you,  have any of these symptoms. Have three or more headaches per week Have headaches that keep getting worse and won't go away Need to take a pain reliever every day or almost every day for your headaches Need more than 2-3 doses of over-the-counter medications per week to relieve headache symptoms Have headaches that are triggered by exertion, coughing, bending, or strenuous activity Have a history of headaches, but have noticed a recent change in your headache symptoms