Your doctor will be able to diagnose a migraine headache based on common migraine headache symptoms, or the history of migraine in your family. A detailed history will be taken in order to rule out other headaches such as tension headache, sinus inflammation, or possibly a more serious underlying problem. The headache itself will start off as a dull ache that soon develops into a throbbing, pounding, or pulsating headache. The pain is usually located on one side of the head, but may affect the front of the head, and even the whole head; lasting from 3-4 hours up to as long as a full week. Common migraine headache symptoms would include: Nausea, upset stomach, or abdominal pain Vomiting Dizziness Sensitivity to light or sound Numbness, or weakness Blurred vision Diarrhea Fever Fatigue Additional migraine symptoms that may be present even after the headache has subsided: Neck Pain Need for sleep Dulled thinking A "classic migraine headache" that started with "aura" will affect about 30% of migraine sufferers. The "aura" itself will be distorted vision, bright flashing spots, blind spots, and even temporary vision loss, may affect other senses. While rare, they do occur, and would include: Retinal Migraine - A dull ache behind one eye that may result in temporary loss of vision. Basilar Artery Migraine - Pain that effects the back of the head and results in dizziness, or loss of balance. Ophthalmoplegic Migraine - Pain surrounding the eye, that may include paralysis around the eye, droopy eyelids, or double vision. This type of migraine is considered to be an emergency conditional. Hemiplegic Migraine - Temporary paralysis, or muscle weakness. Status Migrainosus - A severe type of migraine lasting 3 days or more, often requiring hospitalization. Migraine headaches without "aura" account for 80-85% of migraine headaches and include additional symptoms such as anxiety, fatigue, or depression. Familiarizing yourself with migraine headache symptoms will allow you to describe what it is you are feeling when consulting with your doctor. Copyright ©2007 Carl DiNello
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