Migraine Headaches: Symptoms
Among the most distinguishing features is the potential disability accompanying the headache pain of a migraine. Other common symptoms include:

• Throbbing or pulsing pain on one side of the head
• Nausea, with or without vomiting
• Heightened sensitivity to light and sound
• Prodrome  – A warning that can occur 24-48 hours before the headache. It may include mood changes, yawning, fatigue or food cravings.
• Postdrome  – Post pain symptoms, a feeling of being "washed out," that can occur 24-48 hours after the headache is gone.
  

About one in five migraine sufferers experiences an “aura” before the migraine begins. This means they may have blurry or partial loss of vision, may "see stars", spots or wavy lines, may experience vertigo, confusion or even a tingling in their arms or face. This aura usually lasts 15-20 minutes, but no more than 60 minutes.

Triggers

• Alcohol
• Chocolate
• Aged cheese
• Citrus fruits
• Cured meats
• MSG
• Artificial sweeteners
• Skipped meals
• Nuts
• Onions
• Salty foods
• Excess caffeine
• Stress
• Fatigue
• Medication
• Eyestrain or other visual triggers
• Menstruation
• Weather changes
• Loud noises
• Emotions
• Physical exertion