But a migraine doesn't always have to include a headache.
There is such a thing as a silent migraine. Sufferers of silent migraines do not come off easy, just because they do not experience the pain phase.
Typical migraines come in four phases.
The pre-headache phase can include muscle stiffness, mood changes, fatigue and food cravings. These symptoms can occur hours or days before the onset of a migraine.
Then there is the ‘Aura’ phase that sets in immediately before the headache comes. These include changes in the visual field, like flashing lights or zig-zag lines. It can also include hallucinations that include scents and sounds.
Sufferers of silent migraines experience both these phases in its full intensity and sometimes the hallucinations are even worse for those who suffer from this type of migraine.
Typical migraine sufferers will then experience the intense headache that silent sufferers do not.
The post-headache phase, which silent migraine sufferers also do not go without, is when the depression or euphoria sets in, difficulty concentrating or thinking is experienced and some people also describe it as like suffering from a bad hangover.
A silent migraine can be very frightening because the visual symptoms are acute and still very disruptive to daily activities. Because there are no headaches, sufferers and those around them don't always realize what's happening.
