Do you ever feel like you can predict a migraine is coming on because you just feel “off”? You’re not crazy. This is the first phase of a migraine attack, called prodrome, which occurs before the pain — and often visual aura — set in. It can start a day or two before a headache or visual aura.
The long, long list of possible prodrome symptoms:
Visual (aka aura)
- a bright shape that spreads across the visual field of one eye
and appears to block some or all of the vision; can be seen whether the
eye is open or closed - flashes of light and color
- wavy lines
- geometric patterns
- blurred vision
- partial loss of sight
Sensory
- numbness or tingling on the face or upper extremities
- a sense that limbs are a distorted shape or size
- smelling odors that aren’t actually present (like natural gas or something burning)
Motor
- partial paralysis
- weakness or heaviness in the limbs on one side of the body
Language
- difficulty finding words
- problems understanding spoken or written language
Cognitive
- mental confusion
- disorientation
- transient global amnesia (similar to amnesia that follows a concussion)
Digestive
- food cravings (particularly for carbohydrates, candy and chocolate)
- stomach rumblings
- constipation
Fluid Disturbances
- increased thirst
- bloating/fluid retention
- frequent urination
Mental/Personality
- mood changes
- irritability
- high energy
- lethargy
These are only part of little-known migraine symptoms. The Many Symptoms of Migraine describes symptom in the active migraine phase and the letdown, or postdrome.
Migraine: The Complete Guide