An intense feeling of pain is the trademark of a migraine attack that is specifically felt by those who suffer from migraine headaches. Even though many dismiss migraines as a simple headache they are in fact part of a neurological disease which needs proper attention if they are going to be treated sufficiently. In order to deal with the problem of migraines you should learn all you can about them.

Depending on the patient the symptoms of a migraine will vary. The prodomal phase is typically the start of a migraine headache. During this phase of a migraine people typically feel in a different state of mind, but they don’t yet feel the headache. Sometimes during this phase individuals may be overly ecstatic or have periods of depression. By noticing the changes in behavior at the beginning of this phase you will be able to know when you are going to have a migraine attack, despite the fact that doctors don’t know exactly what happens during this phase. After the prodomal phase a headache can appear either a few hours to a few days later.

Following the prodomal phase is a brief period known as the aural phase which is trademarked by other phenomena right before a headache occurs. Some people will have minor hallucinations right before the start of a migraine headache. Others may experience blurred vision or distorted colors. Some feel as though body parts have fallen asleep or they get a pin and needle feeling similar to when circulation is lost.

After the aural phase the headache occurs. As opposed to tension headaches which occur all over, migraine headaches often occur on only one half of the head. Migraines are typically gradual and the pain won’t reach a peak for several hours. Some will experience a stiffness of the sinuses and blurred vision along with the headache, others may experience diarrhea as well. After the headache portion is done a person enter the postdrome phase. During this phase an individual often feels tired and/or irritable, this is often accompanied by a lack of concentration.

For migraine headaches treatment often focuses on preventative medicines. Often times aspirin and other pain medications don’t work for migraines and over time they will cause more severe rebound headaches. Anti-depressant drugs are the most common drug prescribed by doctors for the prevention of migraine headaches. By talking with your doctor you will be able to find the best type of treatment for your migraine headaches.