Every Migraine is different, but generally they follow the same general path. For example, some migraineurs don’t experience the aura. For the very unlucky ones, the triggers don’t build up over time, but come on immediately upon the first trigger. However, knowing the general procession of Migraines can help you determine the path your particular episodes take. Some headaches can be averted if they are caught in the prodrome or aura phase.
Build up of triggers – This is a period of time that can last a few minutes or a few days. This is not an actual phase of migraine, but precedes the phases.
Prodrome – This is the beginning of a Migraine attack. This is when the equilibrium of the brain begins to be disrupted. The symptoms can range from mild to severe. Many migraineurs report feeling a little “off.”
Aura – The prodrome phase and the aura phase overlap somewhat. The aura phase begins when corticol spreading depression is triggered during the prodrome phase. The aura is a focused neurological event that usually includes sensory aberrations.
Headache – Moderate to severe headache pain that is commonly localized to one part of the head, such as behind the eyes or one side of the head.
Postdrome – This phase is commmonly referred to as a “Migraine Hangover.” This is the time between the end of the headache and the body returning to its normal state.
No one ever experiences the same Migraine twice. However, if you can detect patterns in your Migraines it can help you avert them, or at the very least help you prepare for the onset. Consider tracking your migraines on the free migraine journal on this site.
