How long does migraine last, what is it, & what are its stages?

Those who suffer from migraine attacks frequently might know how painful it can become sometimes. It is not at all like a normal headache and once the attack or pain begins we will not be able to think clearly, or focus on anything. So, a lot of people who are experiencing it for the first time might wonder how long does migraine last, what is it, & what are its stages. Some reports suggest that the occurrence of this particular condition is almost three times more common in women than in men. So, women are more prone to this disabling headache. In some patients, this condition might be first seen during their childhood or school days. On the other hand, in some, it might be observed first during their early adulthood days. In some cases, these headaches might disappear gradually and you might not observe them that frequently. But, even though they disappear for sometime, they can strike anytime all of a sudden. The primary care physicians will be able to handle most cases of migraine. But, if the pain is extremely unbearable, then you might have to consult a neurologist for a detailed check up.

How long does migraine last if no medications are taken?

• The total duration of a migraine attack is not fixed and it might vary from person to person. Different people might experience migraine attacks of varied intensities and likewise, how long they experience the pain and symptoms will also vary.
• If we need to set a particular timeline for the duration of a migraine attack, then we can say that in the majority of the cases, these attacks last for about four to seventy-two hours.
• The above mentioned duration is applicable in the case of untreated patients. If you are taking any medications to alleviate the pain and other migraine related symptoms, then you might experience some relief in a comparatively short period of time.
• Sometimes, the migraine attacks are triggered by certain factors. These include some food items, such as chocolate, coffee, sudden loud sounds, strong and intense smells, etc. Initially, you might not be able to identify your triggers.
• Once you find out what factors are inducing the migraine attacks in your case, you need to judiciously avoid or withdraw from it. This will help in decreasing the duration of the attack.
• Being unable to avoid or withdraw from the triggers will aggravate the existing migraine and might also increase its duration.
• In some people, these attacks might be rare. But, whenever you face it, it might stay for a long duration. On the other hand, in some, these attacks might occur several times a month, but their duration might be less.

What is a migraine attack?

So, we have seen how long does migraine last if no medications are taken. Now, let's take a look at the notable characteristics of this particular ailment.

• Migraines or migraine attacks are very frequently seen these days and it is actually a neurological disease.
• This condition showcases a number of intense symptoms. In most cases, the patients will experience a pulsing, or throbbing headache. Initially, the pain experienced will be dull. But, it will gradually intensify and become unbearable in a short period of time.
• A notable characteristic of this headache is that it may or may not be observed on both sides of the patient's head. It has been observed that this pain frequently occurs on any one side of the head.
• Sometimes, the pain associated with the migraine can move from one side of the head to the other. In certain cases, you might experience the pain either in the front of the head, or the back. It can also affect the patient's whole head.
• The patients might also experience severe pain around their eye or temple region. Sometimes, the pain might also radiate to their whole face, jaw, sinuses, and neck.
• The migraine attacks occur when certain nerves that are present in the blood vessels send signals that are associated with pain to the brain. These signals release some inflammatory chemicals into the nerves and blood vessels that are present in our head. But, we still don't know why the nerves send these pain signals to the brain.

What are the stages of a migraine attack?

The answer to the question, how long does migraine last, is not fixed and it might lie anywhere between four to seventy two hours. The entire duration of a migraine attack is divided into four stages. These include-

1. Prodrome stage
2. Aura stage
3. Attack stage
4. Postdrome stage

• Prodrome stage

This stage occurs before an actual migraine attack and during this stage, you might notice minor changes which can be an indication of an upcoming migraine attack. These include neck stiffness, constipation, frequent yawning, mood changes, etc

• Aura stage

During this stage, reversible symptoms of the nervous system are observed. These include pins and needles sensations in the hands or legs, weakness or numbness in the face or one side of the body, visual phenomena, vision loss, etc.

• Attack stage

During this stage, the patients will experience symptoms such as pain on one side of the head, or on both the sides, intense pain which throbs or pulses, unusual sensitivity to light, sound, smell, nausea, vomiting, etc.

• Postdrome stage

This stage occurs after a migraine attack. The patients might feel confused, or drained. Some patients have also reported an elated feeling.

Conclusion

A lot of migraine patients and their close ones are often curious to know how long does migraine last, what is it, & what are its stages. Currently, there are several medications that can be taken for preventing migraine attacks. Some medicines also help to alleviate the pain associated with these attacks. However, self medication should be strictly avoided and you should get in touch with your doctor to discuss the available treatment options. Along with medications, you should also concentrate on some self-help remedies. Certain lifestyle changes will also aid in preventing the migraine attacks to a great extent.