The clinical picture of migraine
Migraine is a type of headache, but what occurs is not only a headache. Before the attack of migraine, prodromal symptoms may occur for one or two days before the attack. Prodromal symptoms include:
- Mood disturbances (depression or euphoria)
- Food craving
- Severe thirst and frequent urination
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Neck stiffness
- Frequent Yawning
- Fatigue
- Irritability and hyperactivity
- Sensitivity to smell, noise, or light
About 60% of migraine patients experience this prodromal stage of migraine, either their migraine is with or without aura.
After the prodromal stage, the attack occurs, and it starts with aura or pain, according to the type of migraine. About 30% of migraine patients experience this stage (aura) before the headache.
During the aura phase, the symptoms may be visual, sensory, or motor. The visual disturbances are more frequent, and some patients experience more than one type of symptom.