What does headache feel like with migraine?

Migraine pain may be felt on one side or both sides of the head. Nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound or smells can make an attack harder to tolerate. Some people notice visual changes, tingling, dizziness or speech difficulty before the pain; these temporary warning symptoms are called an aura. Migraine can occur without an aura, and not every attack feels identical.

Rest in a dark, quiet room and drink fluids if you can keep them down. Follow the treatment plan prescribed for you, taking medicines as directed and avoiding medicines that have previously caused problems. A regular sleep pattern, meals and hydration can help identify or reduce personal triggers. A diary can record timing, symptoms, food, sleep and medicines without relying on memory.

Seek emergency care for a sudden explosive headache, new weakness, fainting, confusion, seizure, persistent vision loss or difficulty speaking. Get prompt medical advice for a first severe headache, a major change from your usual pattern, fever with a stiff neck, or headache after a head injury. Repeated attacks that disrupt work, sleep or daily activities also deserve a treatment review.

Ask how to distinguish your migraine symptoms from warning signs of another problem, which treatment to use early, and how often rescue medicine is safe for you. Discuss aura, pregnancy, other medicines and any heart, blood pressure or neurological conditions.