I Know a Migraine Attack is Coming on When...

By Kerrie Smyres

1 min read

Without a visual aura, it can be hard to tell when a migraine attack is coming on. These symptoms let me know what’s on the way before the pain hits. Not every one is present in every attack, but at least a few sound the alarm in time for me to take acute meds when they are most effective. Your indications of an oncoming attack may be different or less numerous, but you likely have them, too. Even if you’ve identified some, you may have more that you’re not aware of. It took me ages to uncover all of mine… and I bet I’m still missing some. I’ve shared my list in the hope it might help others find their own migraine warning signs.

My migraine warning signs

The waist of my pants or my bra strap suddenly feels too tight
My left ear itches then starts to ache
It feels like there's something in my left eye
My teeth become ultra sensitive
I slump over in my seat, unable to hold myself upright
I yawn uncontrollably
My eyes water
My feet get cold
I cannot remember simple words
I lose my train of thought repeatedly
I cannot comprehend or follow an article or discussion I would normally be able to understand just fine
I get clumsy, dropping things and walking into walls
I make typos because I can’t get my fingers to hit the correct keys on the keyboard
A simple task like taking out the trash or getting up to get ready for bed feels impossible
Lights seem too bright
Sounds seem too loud
Odors seem overwhelmingly (and disgustingly) strong
I hallucinate odors
My vision gets blurry
My smile becomes lopsided

How do you know when a migraine is coming on? Please leave a comment to add yours to the list.

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e3dsn7 Member
I am not the migraineur in my household; my husband is. But - here are some of the ways I can spot an oncoming migraine: "Whazzat? Say again?" - whenever I speak, it's as if the first time I say something, all he can comprehend is the fact that I have spoken. So I have to say everything twice if I speak at all. I have learned to avoid speaking as much as possible during these periods, as it seems to startle and confuse him, and I find myself getting irritated as well at all the "whazzats". Irritability or even tantrums - my migraineur becomes extremely irritated by small frustrations. During these times he has destroyed a tv remote and broken a toilet handle. Sighing - he doesn't realize he's doing it, but repeated sighing is a sign a migraine is on the way. Yawning - same as sighing. I develop serious character flaws (from my migraineur's point of view), which my migraineur feels compelled to point out and describe in detail until the actual migraine kicks in. Road rage - other drivers on the road also develop severe character flaws, which he also feels compelled to point out. Icy hands Hiccups And of course, resistance to my suggesting that he might be getting another migraine, until the nausea starts - then he can't deny it and at that point I have about 5 minutes to get the rescue meds into him before he starts vomiting. The sun is rising - most of his attacks start right around dawn. Another way I know a migraine is coming is if I make any specific plans, especially for something I really want to do. Best to avoid making those plans in the first place. It's pretty easy just to assume on any given day that he will have a migraine, as that is by far the most likely scenario. In the past month, for example, he's only had four or five days without a migraine.
1. CommunityMember7b0371 Member
 <inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/> thank you for the link 😀 I haven't worked with any specialist yet, I only got the diagnosis from my regular doc. But I already emailed a neurologist bc I thought maybe he can help me. But it's good to know that there are migraine specialists out there and I would definitely appreciate the link on that one too. Sadly my regular doc was only like "yeah sounds like migraines, here, take these pain killers" and that's all the support I got from her. 
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember7b0371" user-id="8645689"/> - I'm so sorry to hear about the less-than-supportive response you received from your GP. Migraine specialists can often be more supportive and responsive due to their extra training on migraine (they are often neurologists who have a subspeciality in migraine medicine). Here's a link to help you find one in your area (though the list is not comprehensive, so do your own search online to find ones in your area): <a href='https://headaches.org/resources/healthcare-provider-finder' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>https://headaches.org/resources/healthcare-provider-finder</a>. Unfortunately, there is a shortage of these types of doctors so some people travel hours to see a specialist as it can be that helpful. And here is an additional link that helps explain the differences between the various practitioners who can help with migraine: <a href='https://migraine.com/blog/healthcare-providers-turn-to-for-help' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/blog/healthcare-providers-turn-to-for-help</a>. We are here to provide support and information as you continue along with your migraine journey. Please keep us updated. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team
shirleyann Member
I really don't know anymore because I live with a headache every day of my life. They call it Chronic Daily Migraines. They are always there. It's just the difference of intensity. I have my "good headaches" which are a category 6-7. I have my "bad headaches" which can put out of commission. THese range from 8-10. Mostly 10. Sometimes it feels like higher but they want some type of measurement. My eyes burn, I can't think straight, and I'm totally incompacitated at these times. I've tried everything.
1. 1soro31 Member
 I'm in the same position as you are. It's terrible, isn't it? What I've noticed is a few signs that it's going to get worse: shoulder tenses up worse than before; light, sound, & smells are growing more intense than before; I'm growing more tired, sad, lonely, & desperate. Topamax & Botox helped me immensely, along with Oxcarbazapine.
2. i396d4 Member
 Hi Shirley, Can definitely relate to your daily headache issues. Have also been diagnosed with chronic migraine headaches. My issue is when full blown migraine hits have no alternative but to head to Hospital ER. No traditional migraine abort medicine will be effective at this point. No choice but to administer morphine with gravol as incredible headache accompanied with nausea. Most dr's sympathetic to my state of health and have been up to ER so many times treatment is almost automatic. Problem is sometimes will run into physician with no empathy towards my condition, will definitely not administer pain meds, which do not rid headache, but make pain somewhat bearable. Pain level decrease to almost 1/2 of when I originally arrived. Do you have any advice on how to deal with such unsympathetic dr's or has this ever occurred in your situation. I have also had success with nerve blocks , but, is hit or miss if run into physician on duty qualified to give injections. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
jojiieme Member
Yes to the yawning! And yes to the clumsiness! And stumbling. Or fuzzy vision. The running lights either sides up the periphery, but then we're not talking auras. Alice in Wonderland stuff: all kinds of weird perspective effects, inside and outside me ( how does the world sound? Can I feel the ground? With which leg? Which part of that leg is actually present? Is my head here Or 6 metres in the sky?) Can I find my words and speak clearly? Can I remember phone numbers and names? Have I repeated myself? Have I repeated the last thing I heard? Explosive diarrhoea (enough said).
ginaderke Member
Yes to nearly all! A few more: Everything I eat tastes "off" Having to pee every few minutes My mood plummets - either horribly sad or irritable
1. CommunityMemberf0e533 Member
 Every 10 minutes to the bathroom before a migraine comes on as well.
oakesgal Member
My PMS week is one pattern that I discovered in highschool/college. If I also find myself feeling very tired and having more issues with thinking clearly, I know the probability is higher and will start treating any headache with prescription rather than trying OTC first. In the last few years tension in neck/shoulders may indicate/trigger a migraine. I can almost guarantee a migraine if the top few vertebrae beneath my skull shift and pop out of place. That kind hits in about 30 min. If I'm not sure if I am dealing with a regular headache or migraine, intensified smells and nausea will confirm migraine. If I get within 10 feet of a newspaper, I will smell the ink, which immediately intensifies the pounding and nausea. I'm curious if anyone else finds that they can tell the instant the migraine starts to lift or feels more alert and able to think much more clearly than normal after a migraine meds has been successful.
Member
I can't get enough water but it has to be iced and has to be so cold it hurts my throat. This also happens when I'm in my postdrome but it's more prevalent in my prodrome. I'm actually on my tenth glass of water as I type this 🙁 I sneeze constantly - sounds weird but I have allergies, too so it was confusing at first. I've since figured out that if I don't get real relief from a sneeze, I need to keep my meds nearby. The night to two nights before, I don't sleep. I take meds that make me drowsy and I'll take them but they won't be effective. Butters wants to be more in my lap than normal and when I go to bed, she plasters herself up against me to the point I can't move (she's such the bed hog but she also likes to steal covers, too). I get intense cravings for either ice cream or a something salty (Doritos Extreme Enchilada or Pepper Jack Cheez-its fixes that right up). My irritation for even the tiniest problem hits the stratosphere. I speak to a lot of friends online through Email, chat and instant messenger and I am meticulous about my English and spelling. If I'm about to have an attack, I drop words, spell the wrong word (their, they're and there) and I don't correct them. They let me know if I start making too many mistakes. On top of everything else that you mentioned.
sismo Member
Too many times it is more like "I should have realized I was getting a migraine when..." but if I am paying attention then ... when... I cry for absolutely no reason. I get really cold for no reason. (This is a really strong sign for a bad one!) I get hungry... must eat now hungry... reallyhungry... can't think hungy.... too late. I drop things, run into the furniture. My ear ringing changes tone. My head/scalp tingles. My arms and hands feel funny, numbish, trembly, otherwise weird. I take deep breaths, not exactly sighing, but for no reason. It is like I am comforting myself ahead of time or something. I start wondering if I am about to get one...generally this means something isn't right, even if I can't quite say what isn't right, something isn't right. SMELLS are weird, annoying! the dog smells terrible, and I don't have a dog😀! And the ever popular, which came first, I can't sleep so I get a migraine, or I can't sleep because I'm about to get a migraine?
1. CommunityMemberf0e533 Member
 I can do relate to the smells. I walk around my house saying someone was smoking in here. Or I can't believe no one can smell the garbage that doesn't really smell. 
2. Nancy Harris Bonk Moderator
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMemberf0e533" user-id="8583377"/> I hear you! My phantom smell is cigarette smoke and occasionally burning trash! You're not alone. I hope you're having a good day, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>Migraine.com</a> Team
maxgordon Member
All the above, plus... • It hurts to turn my neck • I get short-tempered or labile • There's a knife in my left eye • I word up my mixes • Reading is too much work • My head is too heavy
1. eloise1951 Member
 YES; the knife in the right eye! That is how I have described my migraines for 35 years. Also complete exhaustion. When I tell my husband I feel like I have been hit by a bus he looks at me and raises his eyebrows - Oh Yeah, THAT is what's happening. My pupils shrink and eyes lids droop and the sensitivity to light and sound as with most people. I have had 3 aura events, one without the migraine (that was weird) but the one that seems strange is the massive achy joints all over afterward. Always wondered if it was due to the prescription: Amerge, (Naratriptan)? Anyone experience that?
erdington5 Member
Amen Sister I am amazed on how your migraines match mine. I am finally seeing a doc who only works with migraines. He is going to start again with Botox in June and then every 12 weeks. I also have stimulator wires to try and keep my migraines in check. I have them going across my forehead and occipital lobes.
1. casper6 Member
 Hi Jackie I was wondering if you can tell me more about the stimulator wires. Is that like a tens unit? Where can I learn more about this? Thanks for your help. Casper6
Member
I can't get over how many of the symptoms listed I experience and really never thought they were signs of a migraine heading my way....I thought it was all in my head and as it turns out...it was..literally. Sneezing...watery eyes...discomfort in my neck and shoulders, yawning, weakness in my arms and legs, moodiness, tiredness, lack of concentration, mixed up words.. and the big one.... VERTIGO! I always felt like most of these symptoms seemed too 'silly' to mention to my neurologist, but, needless to say, I will mention them to him at my next appointment which is in June.
jtm1987 Member
My list is almost exactly the same!
fourposies Member
The bridge of my nose gets very heavy as if heavy glasses were sitting on it.
1. not found
 Yes!!! Or sometimes it feels like my nose is being mashed into my face by an invisible hand. This has subsided substantially since I ditched the topamax.
Member
Amazing that I too can relate to many of the things on this list. At a loss for words or names Mix up words Lose my train of thought Neck pain Light sensitivity Stomach ache Vision disturbances I have been trying multiple methods and will try just about anything to get them under control.
crownk9s Member
I know a migraine is coming, for me, when I start getting dizzy spells, I get "Sun Dogs" in my eyes and increased light sensitivity. Additionally, I have Parkinson's Disease, and migraines amplify my Parkinson's symptoms.
vanny62 Member
I am writing this during a migraine. I want to thank the person that said the ringing in her ears changed.....Up to reading that comment, I thought I was the only one.....
melkirk Member
I will say things in reverse. I will say the opposite of what I was trying to say. Very frustrating!!
1. melkirk Member
 I am also writing this while having a migraine. Even more frustrating. I had to retype this because I started to type the wrong thing. Ugh!?!?
meggietye Member
I am feeling for each of you who have posted as for 21 yrs I have been in the same boat...my crazy brain has had me, like you, experiencing some wacky things! Last June ('15) I was slated to begin Botox injections (which in of itself comes with a potential host of problems). I had been reading up on an eating plan that dr's had been using for epilepsy with a lot of success in kids and wondered if it something like that might be doable for migraine? First of all I was getting migraine so often it was impossible to know what triggered it??? It was just all smooshed in together every day. I was taking meds daily and thought I might be in Rebound...so I got out of rebound. It was painful but I did it!! In January I began a Ketogenic diet and now it is late April and I believe there is something to this way of eating. In Jan I had 30 attacks, In Feb I had 28, In March I had 7, and as of today in April I have had 1. High fat, medium protein and low carb is my key. I was drinking tons of water but because I wasn't taking in enough sodium I was peeing it all out and having dehydration induced migraine...for all these years!! Who knew?? So now I have 2-3 salty mugs of hot water a day followed by a lot of cold water. I still have a long way to go and the hot summer is coming up so it will be challenging..but this way of eating soothes my brain and my family & friends keep commenting on the change in me 😀 If this interests you at all I got my initial information from, "The Migraine Brain" by Dr Josh Turknett, M.D Neurologist. He is a migraine sufferer as is his wife and Mom and daughter and this has healed them substantially. He has a website called my migraine <a href='https://brain.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>brain.com</a>. I was a bit hesitant to tell everyone what I was doing but now a few months have passed and I know others on the same plan and we are all doing better..so I really wanted to share this tool. We will always have sensitive migraine brains but if something as controllable as food can help us, why not try it?! My doctor thinks this is crazy, but he can't argue with the results. I am just plain doing MUCH better 😀. Best wishes. Nancy
1. BrendaLM Member
 <inline-mention username="meggietye" user-id="3842079"/> I have not heard of dehydration induced migraine, but this could be some of my problem. Thanks for sharing.
2. Melissa Arnold Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="BrendaLM" user-id="4730740"/> There are so many possible triggers! Hydration, food, sleep, weather, the list goes on ... glad this could get your wheels turning a bit. Hope we can continue to help you learn more about migraine! -Melissa, <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team
i396d4 Member
When migraine is imminent, first feel slight headache sensation above left eye. Will immediately beeline to medicine cabinet for medication due to fear of turning into full blown migraine attack. Start getting very sensitive to light, noises. After approx 1 hr, if meds do not work will contact family physician or head up to hospital ER for shot of Toradol. Normally if acted prudently migraine will dissipate within an hour. However, occasionally awakened middle of night or meds have no effect and experience full blown migraine headache attack. Is literally most pain I have experienced.
jenniferbrodeur Member
I recognize many of these as well. I do not have visual auras, but now that I am off the mind-numbing (but not migraine-numbing) topiramate, I can often -- almost always -- tell when a migriane is coming on. I can now use my acute meds much more effectively (I got to where I hardly ever bothered to take them, as it was always too late!) Some of the indicators you list above, however, are just my "normal" now...like remembering simple words (it comes and goes). I thought your comment about your left ear was interesting. It is always my left ear that itches inside, in the canal...and I often have an earache there, although I have no infection. I had never thought to try to connect it to a migraine, though! I will definitely pay attention next time. (It is itching today...so we will see). My biggest indicator is that feeling of weakness, fatigiue -- for no apparent reason -- just an all-over sensation in my body that I can't explain. I also often feel there is inflammation in my body or head (or both). It's hard to describe what internal inflammation feels like unless you've had it. I also have feelings of being too cold or too hot (can go either way), even though the ambient temperature is the same. And as I said in response to a comment below, my boyfriend tells me my eyes are at "half-mast". But by then, I am usually already aware that it is coming on. I am going to post this article on Facebook, because my son posted a video of a device someone used to give people without migraines an idea of what it was like to live with the visual auras. But it does nothing to describe the non-visual effects, and many people responded to that fact. I'm sure they'll find this list interesting as well! Thank you!
1. jean Member
 "My neuro told me that often as a migraineur gets older, they turn into silent migraines." That seems to be happening to me. Even when I have pain it is mostly less intense but the other symptoms daily.
jenniferbrodeur Member
I have a question for anyone: Do you ever get these symptoms and then NOT have it turn into a migraine? So that you're not sure if one is coming on until, maybe, you accumulate a certain combination?
1. jenniferbrodeur Member
 Cookie, that happens to me too. I've heard them called "silent migraines" because you have everything but the pain. I don't think anyone that hasn't had a migraine before could understand, because they don't understand that migraine is a whole-body experience, not just a headache. My neuro told me that often as a migraineur gets older, they turn into silent migraines. But he's told me things before that I'm not sure are quite the case...like he thought that's what I wanted to hear. While it's nice to at least not have the pain associated with a migraine, I'm still pretty much out of commission for the duration, however. And of course, people just don't understand that. *sigh* Greta, I think this may be the case with me as well...because I am more in tune with what's going on, I don't push myself and really start minding my triggers when I see something out of the ordinary. (Well, with chronic migraine, that IS the ordinary, I guess...) But I still have some of the symptoms in the original list off & on, without a migraine. But it is probably due to other factors, like the fact that I have FMS, and get those "foggy days" with the brain fog, and the fatigue, aches & pains that aren't attached to anything else, playing "hallway pinball" as I bounce off of walls for losing my balance, etc.
2. not found
 Yes. But for me the combination of symptoms changes almost every time so I don't truly know for sure until the slight pain starts. It happens very fast so I must take something right away. Sometimes it feels as though this disease is a living demon deliberately trying to foil my attempts to stifle it. I can feel "wrong" for a couple days with varying symptoms and I know I'm going into a cycle that I'll be fighting for days.
casper6 Member
I have battled with migraines over 30 years. I have never had the aura, but at times I wish I did so it would be easier to detect. But as I have gotten older I am able to detect if they are warning signs. I get very sensitive to bright light. Florescent light will give me sort of a haze appearance if I am trying to read. My eyes have a hart time focusing. Then on the right side of face my cheek bone will start aching and grow stronger. I get easily confused with the simplest instructions. Have a hard time paying attention. Then if I let it go on too long, I feel nauseous and sick to my stomach. Paying attention to what all you feel as it comes on and before the migraine will help you be able to detect.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMemberd53253" user-id="6740515"/> How interesting! Thank you for sharing these symptoms with us. You are definitely not alone in experiencing these. A lot of folks report these types of vascular symptoms. I'm sending you to a link that shares our resources on this front: https://migraine.com/search?s=numbness%20hot%20cold. These kinds of links are sometimes wonky, however. If it doesn't come through, please just cut and paste it into the browser, or in our search bar (upper left) enter "numbness hot cold" and you will see the articles where community members have shared their own experiences with these issues. I think you will resonate with what we have there. So glad you are with us. Let us know if you have any questions about what you find. Warmly - Holly - <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team 
2. Alene L. Brennan, RYT Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMemberd53253" user-id="6740515"/> it can be so validating when someone puts words to what feels like an indescribable experience. I'm glad to hear that this article did that for you. I see that Holly passed along an article for you. I wanted to share this one as well in hopes that you might find it helpful. https://migraine.com/migraine-symptoms/numbness-tingling Keep us posted on how you're doing. Best Alene, <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>Migraine.com</a> Team Member
judyhumphrys Member
I too, have uncontrollable yawning jags. Other symptoms include neck pain; tight neck, shoulder, and upper back; tender scalp (on side of migraine). In addition to the drooping eye feeling, I actually feel like one eye is drooping a lot lower than the other, then the pain comes behind that eye. If I can take midrin (or sometimes even Aleve) before the eye pain starts, I am good to go. I rarely have any other aura before it gets underway.
joanie78 Member
Hi.. I had to get off of topomax because of the mind numbing effects. I was also getting migraines quite bad while on it. Now I am about 1 year off of it.. And have started getting the Alice in wonderland effects (I feel like I am tiny inside my body) strange feeling but I can't explains it better. I get almost all the same symptoms you guys do.. I just didn't see the Alice in wonderland feeling .
luvgsd Member
Yawning uncontrollably, clumsy, light and sound sensitive word search stiff neck.
tanyamcmann Member
The night before my neck gets really sore and cracks a lot.
1. jns192 Moderator
 tanyamcmann, Thank you for sharing your symptoms with us. We have several resources regarding neck as it's associated with migraine on our site. If you are interested in reading more about the topic, feel free to check them out: <a href='https://migraine.com/?s=neck&submit=go' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/?s=neck&submit=Go</a> Best, Jillian (Migraine.com Team)
jenx70 Member
I have light sensitivity and it feels like my brain is too heavy.
1. jns192 Moderator
 JenX70, Thank you for sharing. I thought you might enjoy this fascinating article on photophobia: <a href='https://migraine.com/blog/migraine-symptoms-photophobia-sensitivity-to-light' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/blog/migraine-symptoms-photophobia-sensitivity-to-light/</a> Here is another article you might find helpful that offers tips for light sensitive migraineurs: <a href='https://migraine.com/blog/migraine-awareness-month-8-let-there-be-light' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/blog/migraine-awareness-month-8-let-there-be-light/</a> Also be sure to check out the comments under the article for more feedback from members like you. Best, Jillian (Migraine.com Team)
Member
My right shoulder aches, then my neck gets stiff and sore on the right side only. Next day visual aura. Day after headache starts
1. jns192 Moderator
 Bill, Thank you for sharing with us. I wanted to share some articles you might be interested in that relate to your symptoms. Also feel free to check out the comments at the bottom of the article for more feedback from members like you: Stiff Neck: <a href='https://migraine.com/blog/migraine-symptom-a-stiff-neck' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/blog/migraine-symptom-a-stiff-neck/</a> Visual Aura: <a href='https://migraine.com/blog/what-is-a-migraine-aura' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/blog/what-is-a-migraine-aura/</a> Thank you for being a part of our community. We are glad to have you here. Best, Jillian (Migraine.com Team)
gretam Member
Does anyone else pee like crazy? This symptom starts before the headache, and lasts through the pain, too. Very annoying and rather embarrassing.
1. Member
 That's another one I forgot to mention - I'm hitting the bathroom 20-30 times at least about a day before one hits. You are right that it's embarrassing - especially if you're in the middle of a sneezing fit and you don't quite make it to the bathroom in time.
2. jns192 Moderator
 Greta & Stacey, Thank you so much for sharing. I have chronic migraine and pee all the time as well! I haven't been able to link my urine frequency to migraine attacks because I always pee often but luckily I don't always have a migraine. If you haven't already, discuss this symptom with your doc. Perhaps there is something else going on that is unrelated to migraine. It's worth checking it out. Feel free to keep us posted. We'd love to hear back. Best, Jillian (Migraine.com Team)
ginamac Member
I get most of the same symptoms before a migraine. The fatigue is actually bad enough that I will spontaneously fall asleep.My stomach will burn as though I am really hungry, but then when I eat I feel nauseous. I also get the horrible neck and scapula pain and the left ear pain. I tear constantly from the left eye and my left nostril and sinus gets clogged. I get sad, irritable, sensitive to light and sound,bad vision in my left eye, drooping left eye, trouble speaking, and sometimes the shape of my forehead bulges out. The longer I have had migraines ( 65 years now) the more varied and intense these symptoms have been. There isn't a lot of help from the medical community, except pain relief.
1. jns192 Moderator
 Gina, Thank you so much for sharing your experiences with us. As a fellow migraineur, I understand how uncomfortable and debilitating symptoms of a migraine can be. It is interesting because I have the same exact feelings (nausea, fatigue etc.) with each migraine but it has become more intense over the years for me as well. I know that there is a pill out there for everything, but sometimes that gets a little overwhelming. Have you tried any non-pharmaceutical options for your migraines? If you are interested, feel free to read through some of the info we have on this topic: <a href='https://migraine.com/migraine-treatment/natural-remedies' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/migraine-treatment/natural-remedies/</a> <a href='https://migraine.com/complimentary-and-alternative-therapies' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/complimentary-and-alternative-therapies/</a> Wishing you a gentle evening. Best, Jillian (Migraine.com Team)
2. not found
 Omg! I thought it was my imagination. My right temple feels like it's bulging during a migraine when I compare it to my left. I've never mentioned this for fear of being thought alarmist. Although I hate that you suffer so, I'm so glad I'm not crazy. And although I've only been chronic for just over 3 years, you're absolutely correct in that the only thing the medical community can truly offer is temporary pain relief. And then were suspected of addiction!
terri64 Member
I've actually been wondering if anyone else had the same issue with having increased urination frequency and urgency just before a migraine. I noticed really picking on this as a warning last year. I also get bad neck pain. My speech gets scrambled. Although Topamax has added to the loss of my brain function 😀. I smell phantom odors, I get clumsier, I scramble words when I trying to type. My face gets numb. Pretty much everything on the list up above. I've had migraines since I was 13. The pre-symptoms vary. I deal with them several times a week even with preventive medication and Botox. The severity is a bit less then before starting on Botox.
1. lightweaver Member
 I am so glad I am not alone in this. I have such a hard time telling if it is a migraine or one o my MS symptoms.
2. kellier1069 Member
 I noticed today a frequency to urinate during the migraine. It has something to do with pain because I noticed with the pain coming an going (in a way similar to a shout with an echo that dies out; strong sudden pain then throb, throb, throb, throb, each a little less than before) each time the pain would come I would have to pee.
jennsale Member
I experience several of these symptoms, though they have changed some through the years. The one I didn't see is EXTREME ITCHING - my skin gets very sensitive and feels like it's on fire or that there are tiny pin pricks all over but nothing is there. Another is getting hot or feeling like I'm coming down with a fever but thermometer shows normal.
Marcellus Member
Thanks for your honesty and a touch of needed humor. Migraines since childhood; new chronic daily migraines for last 22 years. I've kept careful daily tracking of triggers; read widely for any ideas; have also tried nearly every medication, every natural and complementary treatments. At 63 I've been forced to retire early. Now mostly abortives & pain meds. Stumbled across similar list of precursors, though yours is more complete. I have probably at least 60% of yours. In the past, I figured these were side effects to various meds, along with age and burnout. Now I'm paying better attention as possible part of this whole phenomenon that is the migraine brain! Again, thank you!
susankh Member
I am a physician and I had to retire after practicing only 1 1/2 years for disabling migraines. I was a psychiatrist in the Navy with a remaining service obligation and I was accused of having a Psychiatric disorder that I would not admit to or wanting to avoid my service obligation and subsequently pracitice medicine as a civilian. It was so humiliating. I suffered several episodes of delirium with the headaches including one episode when I found myself speeding down a Chicago freeway with no memory of how I had gotten there. I could not coordinate my movements or read signs. I had great difficulty pulling off the road into some kind of store parking lot and fell out of the car before I entered the store. I could not tell what kind of store it was. (Later I was able to locate my car with the help of my husband and found it was a music store filled with pianos.) I lost consciousness and was taken to an ER and "came to" some time later. I didn't know my name, date etc and couldn't draw a clock. I was delirious and later in another (Navy) hospital was again delirious and found wandering aimlessly about. The Navy doctors said "everyone's mind wanders sometimes." They dosed me heavily with Dilantin (an anti-seizure medication) although they continued to insist that I just wanted to avoid my Navy obligation and nothing was wrong with me. I was delirious twice more in the Navy, lost consciousness and collapsed with subsequent transport to the ER. The Navy continued to insist that I was just trying to avoid my military obligation. They hospitalized me a the Michigan Head Pain Institute. Note at the time that I was a LCDR with a sterling reputation. I had graduated in the top third of my class at Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. I had received the most awards of anyone in my 3rd year for clinical excellence. The Navy explicitly told me that they believed that I just wanted/needed to live with my husband, although in my entire time in the Navy (more than 10 years) I had never done so. I waited for the Navy to do the right thing and discharge me from the Navy as I had become quite incapacitated by horrible fatigue and near daily headaches, which I still experience. Practicing medicine outside the Navy or any other work was and is completely out of the question. My husband had to launch a Congressional Inquiry which I am happy to say members of congress immediately recognized as valid; I was released after several months from my Navy obligation. However the entire procedure was humiliating in the extreme and it took me honestly 15 years to recover from the traumatizing experience. My own family members were unsupportive (with the exception of my sister) and my own brother told me that I had psychiatric problems and that he was thoroughly disgusted with me. He screamed at me in front of other family members while I was providing him room and board during his vacation and said that his own migraines were far more severe than mine (he practices medicine to this day) and that I should "snap out of it". I was feeling very ill at the time and was hardly in a position to defend myself. My parents did and still do support him and his point of view and are angry with me because I do not “forgive him” for having this opinion of me and associate with him at family gatherings. It makes the family "look bad." In a recent conversation, my mother told me that she wanted absolutely nothing to do with with me at all because I refused to “forgive” my brother. Please note that when I was told that I had psychiatric problems that I said I did not believe so but was willing to entertain all possibilities and allowed myself to be examined several times through a variety of interview techniques in a couple of different hospitals and with sophistical psychological testing. They were unable to make a psychiatric diagnosis and eventually concluded that I did not have a psychiatric diagnosis. I know these details are a bit off topic but they do include some unusual symptoms that I experienced and some of you may find these descriptions helpful. Also, as I am a psychiatrist, I think it important to recognize how traumatic it can be to be diagnosed with this illness, especially when your physicians and family are downright hostile. It can take an enormous toll on your psyche and the damage incurred should not be underestimated. I am extremely fortunate that my husband was incredibly supportive and I hope with all my heart that my experience was atypical. I hate to think that any of you migraine sufferers suffered or suffer anything near to what I did battling this disease. I am a very independent person, but it is not something easily faced alone. To return to the main topic (and I apologize for the huge digression), one of the physical symptoms I have experienced repeatedly is periorbital edema. Sometimes one eye is affected. Sometimes both. In later years actually my whole face is affected. When it is mild, no one else can notice, but because it is my face I can certainly detect it especially as all fine and not so fine wrinkles disappear! I can tell that I have edema first thing in the morning. I feel it when I get out of bed and I know that I can expect extreme fatigue for at least a couple days, often accompanied by a migraine. No physician I have seen is familar with this symptom, perhaps it will be helpful for this audience to be aware. Sorry for the long diatribe, maybe someone will find this useful.
1. kakrni Member
 <inline-mention username="susankh" user-id="3887827"/> I have been told that when I have a migraine , my right eye protrudes outward. Is that what you are talking about when you say periorbital edema?
2. karenkonkol Member
 <inline-mention username="susankh" user-id="3887827"/> I'm so sorry you experienced those things. I, too, have had family, friends, and work places that couldn't believe all of the symptoms I get. Yours was over the top cruel. You are a survivor. You are special. You are loved, dear one.
kellier1069 Member
When I blink and suddenly feel like someone just flashed a bright light in my eyes. It moves, either from one side to the other or starts in the center and spreads outward becoming clearer in the center with no peripheral vision. Like looking through a small tube. I get about 15 to 30 minutes after the onset of these before pain, nausea, photophobia begin to some degree.
1. kellier1069 Member
 Oddly, I have just started taking magnesium and calcium supplements. And today I experienced my first double migraine. I woke up and within 10 minutes experienced an aura (one side to the other). I took the herbals I would normally take, ginger, garlic and also some Tylenol when it was still bad after an hour. Then, this afternoon, just as I was starting to feel a little better, another aura hit (center to outward). The most prevalent symptom through both was nausea. Headache intermittent. But I feel very bloated. Extremely photophobic. Especially with the onset of the 2nd one. And just feel odd. I also noticed really bad heartburn all day. I am considering trying Imitrex.
2. not found
 Imitrex or Relpax save me and I am allowed 9 per month. Definitely give it a try. I have become chronic in the last 4 years. I used to have your symptoms, and still do, prior to really bad attacks. But mine have changed to mostly relentless head aches with other symptoms such as chills, depression, nausea, phantom odors, loud tinnitus, phantom voices, forgetfulness, earache, dizziness, I could go on...but for me, the magnesium seemed to help. Not the calcium so much. That seemed to make it worse for me. Don't give up on the magnesium just yet.
mansichokseyvyas Member
Hi everywhere. I have been suffering from Migraine from the past 10 odd years. I think I have hormonal migraine. The one which usually comes few days before the period, goes when on periods and comes again few days after period. SO basically for almost 6-10 days in a month I have migraine. Apart from hormonal changes, heat, stress, lack of sleep, changes in eating patterns also contributes to it. I generally get one sided pain in my head. Sometimes the pain extends to my jaws and teeth and i even feel that the back of my eye hurts. I yawn too much, feel weak and very lost. Light, sound and odour sensitivity is at max that time. Irritability is also very high.Become clumsy, simple tasks like reading or concentrating becomes too much for me. Neck pains are also prominent.The worst feeling is feeling sleepy + nausea + pain in the head.. Just dunno what to do. If this happens late in the evening or after that i just goto sleep without eating anything. infact i also get back pains during migraine. Reading so many comments here I feel there is someone who feels the same like I do 😀
angelalloyd Member
My pupils become unequal prior to my migraine. Being an ER RN this becomes concerning for my coworkers who notice it prior to me noticing it and they are very relieved when I tell them it's a migraine and I'm not going to have a cerebral infarct. 😀 Or, not yet.
1. patditella Member
 My pupils also become unequal (Aniscoria) prior to a migraine. Often times it will occur a day or more before I get one. It totally freaks out the doctors I've had in the past. I too am an RN, but retired now. It sounds strange, but I'm somehow relieved to hear that someone else has the same symptom. Up until now, I haven't seen or heard of anyone experiencing this. I found it in a review of literature probably 15 years ago.
busyangels Member
So glad I found this site! I often get a metallic taste in my mouth, my temple and above my eye burn, not pain but burning. I have had them since I was 5 but none while nursing or pregnant. The only thing that works is maxalt or imitrex. Worse lately but my allergies often trigger my migraines. My worst migraines are after stress or a food allergy (pork of any kind, red dye, aged cheese) caffeine actually helps as does a hot cloth on my head. Don't know how people do the ice packs, makes my head hurt thinking about it!
flyingdragon Member
So many of those symptoms I had at one time or another. Also driving is very uncomfortable, my back starts hurting real bad.
tiki Member
I know a migraine is coming on when I'm conscious.
tiki Member
Clarification on my previous post: my migraines are constant. When I'm asleep is the only time I don't feel them. Moral of the story is don't get hit by high voltage power lines.
Member
Prior to a migraine I get hiccups. I never get hiccups otherwise. My neurologist told me its the first time in his 30+ yrs practicing he's ever seen it as a prodrome to a migraine. (I have other symptoms, but hiccups are the most odd/stand-outish)
not_faking_it Member
I know a migraine is coming when I feel numbness in the back of my head followed by feeling very agitated. I'm not very nice when I have a migraine. I get angry very easily.
not_faking_it Member
I have found that artificial sweetners,flowery smelling perfumes, musky smelling colognes, certain sounds (usually high pitched), and certain spices can trigger a migraine. I have been hospitalized 4 times because of severe migraines. My worst episode hospitalized me for 10 days. My head felt like it was going to explode. I lost my job because of it. I am still bitter about it. I have a different job now.
lauraax Member
I will get really agitated and have mood swings usually 2/3 days before my migraine I also just feel poorly not right in myself I get really lethargic also
wearysurvivor Member
I was sexually abused by my father and another person about age 9. My mother was neglectful of me and another woman would fondle my breasts. When in college, I got in trouble with a professor. Following that, my boss offered to give me a ride home from work but he took me to his house. He was furious with me that I was scared and insisted he take me home. My headaches began on that day with terrible vomiting. Eventually I had to leave school. My headaches always begin in my ear (was left for years, now it is the right. Am mildly nauseous and wish my ear would throw up. Feel very dizzy and have trouble focusing. Head feels awful (sick) if I try to turn it. Have history of daily migraine for about two months, then about 10 days of an absolutely clear head. Then starts up again. I am a very happy person (now 74 years old)who has worked thru the awful repercussions of sexual abuse but the headaches never went away, although I did have a brief reprieve from them, they are back again. Venlafaxine (Effexor) helps me tremendously. Summavel Dose Pro also helps. This is a very difficult way to live.
1. karenkonkol Member
 <inline-mention username="wearysurvivor" user-id="3773216"/> I am so very sorry you experienced those things. Prayers & blessings for reduced pain. You are special. You are important. You are loved.
not found
Anyone out there smell phantom odors? Or has what I call hypersmell (in that, I can smell real odors before others do, or when others can't, but the odor is really there after all)? I have this so often, I'm not sure its a precursor to Migraine. I definitely have louder tinnitus, dullwittedness(stupidity), clumsiness and brain fog prior to a migraine episode. Very few days a month when I'm joyfully sharp, clear-headed and pain free...
12v6hx Member
I know I'm getting a migraine when I instantly start hating everybody and everything and feel like crying for no reason.
katdan1026 Member
My tinnitus gets super loud, I lose part of my hearing, have trouble remembering words, stumble over words, feel dizzy, and my face and ears feel like they are being squeezed in a vice right before it hits.
lisahollybeth Member
The day before I get really really hungry... Even when I've just eaten. And then I'm at the toilet a lot... Then yawning... Then very lethargic... However - had my Diath pierced in February and been ok so far (touching wood as I type!!)
1. Joanna Bodner Community Admin
 Hi there Lisahollybeth, I am so happy to read that your daith piercing has seemed to have brought you some relief! Truly hope you continue to experience positive results! Thanks for taking the time to comment! Be sure to check back in when you can & let us know how things are going. Take care, Joanna (Migraine.com Team)
mixi Member
It's hard for me; I have no aura........ maybe à stiff neck with pain. After that comes many symptoms and it's already too late to stop the migraine path. All I can do is take my triptan and go to bed for 4 - 5 hours.
margaret-fiedler Member
Didn’t know anyone experienced the clothing tightness!!! I have all these symptoms listed except the itchy ear! And I have an uncontrollable urge to eat constantly 🙁. My nose also turns very cold. As does my left foot. Crazy symptoms! Thanks for sharing.
glassmind Member
Yes to all those except yawning. And I get visual aura for some migraines.
kakrni Member
I know a migraine is coming shortly if, when I try to read or look at someones face, I can only see , maybe just one eye. The rest of the face is sparkly . When I try to read, the letters/words directly in front of me are gone, while the side view is fairly clear.
BrendaLM Member
Most of my migraines I think are related to muscle tension, so any increase in activity usually will be followed by a migraine, even if the activity is an increase in visual activities i.e. too much tv, computer, or painting, etc. For example, fishing or shopping most of the day usually results in a migraine the following day. However, I do have Vestibular migraines which have no pain or other symptoms sometimes, so I don't know I am having them unless something seems off. I also have psoriatic arthritis and peripheral neuropathy, so I'm certain some of my headaches are inflammation related. Doing an inflammation free diet does help, but like any diet is hard. So as of right now, I am not aware of prodromal signs. Ug!
BrendaLM Member
<img src="/content/images/2022/06/10/6f9b9f5e33603d53514f41fab14ab2f3_medium.jpg" alt="Selfie" class="uploaded-image"/>
amymarie-3b Member
Since I have chronic migraines, I only have approx. 3 pain-free days a month… and those are always my prodrome days. They are my favorite days, even tho I know the migraine will hit that same night. Here are my warnings, as they progress throughout that day: TONS of energy!! (I’ve learned to just milk it 😊) Great appetite! Clumsiness, and trouble gripping things. Over-excitement with scattered mind, and trouble concentrating. Losing words. Phantom smells Yawning. Allodynia (All touch is painful.) Trouble sleeping. Then the usual (and familiar) pain, crawls back into my head… 🌻🌻 Amy 
1. amymarie-3b Member
 <inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/> Thank you for the link! And yes, it is awful! I get it down my arms and legs too… and I can’t stand anything to move across or against me. Makes me want to jump out of my skin! 
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="amymarie-3b" user-id="3668491"/> My goodness- yes, when we experience allodynia all over our bodies, it can be so intense. I have noticed that it has worsened as I've gotten older. I've had to give away all the clothes in my wardrobe that are not cotton or have any texture at all for this very reason. Do you find yourself having to avoid or being drawn toward certain types of fabrics because of the allodynia? Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
karenkonkol Member
I hear music that is not there. (Auditory hallucinations)
karenkonkol Member
 I may have at least 5-10 of the below symptoms prior to the actual migraine. I can have any number (or all) of symptoms below once the migraine is in full swing. - Severe throbbing head pain (sometimes, both sides) - Jolting severe ice pick pain (could present anywhere in my head) - Allodynia: pain from stimuli which is normally not painful (My hair hurts!) - Paresthesia: numbness & tingling of hands/fingers - Photophobia: sensitivity to any light - Phonophobia: sensitivity to sounds - Osmophobia: sensitivity to smells - Auditory & olfactory hallucinations: hearing & smelling sounds & odors that are Not present - Alice in Wonderland Syndrome: changes in the way I perceives sizes & distances of objects (I can literally watch a wall breathe.) - Confusion - Tinnitus - Dysphonia: impairment of speech (cannot find the appropriate words) We call this: Migraine Brain. - Aphasia: decreased ability to understand language - Feeling hot/cold - Dizziness - Vertigo - Ataxia: decreased/poor co-ordination - Visual disturbances:flashing zigzags, blind spots, & blurriness - Nausea & Vomiting - Increased yawning - Decreased cognition & concentration - Sinus inflammation - Insomnia - Dehydration - Altered perception of all stimuli (everything) - Anxiety - Cephalalgiaphobia (the fear and anticipation of the next migraine attack) - Irritability - Muscle stiffness - Crazy cravings - Severe Fatigue - Loss of patience - Loss of empathy - Depression - Depersonalization: feeling "outside" of oneself - Suicidal thoughts: due to severe head pain and all the other symptoms. (These are fleeting thoughts, not a plan.) 
1. CommunityMember485 Member
 I have more of the symptoms after the migraine starts too. Interesting 
2. Tonya Henry Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember485" user-id="4707176"/> I am so sorry that you experience more after the migraine has started. You are not alone though. Sometimes my symptoms get worse when trying to treat the migraine. I feel that I can't win for losing at times. That is ok though. I am trying my best. Hang in there. Sending hugs to you. (Tonya, <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> contributor).
spacer2 Member
Agitation and angry - mood change Brain and vision Cloudiness Sharp pains in my neck Perception of space is off trip and walk into walls Vertigo 
1. Cody Leach Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="spacer2" user-id="3791665"/> Thanks for sharing how you know when a migraine attack is coming on. I feel like the more we learn about ourselves, and how we feel when a migraine is starting, we gain more power over migraine. It doesn't make them less painful, or make them go any faster, but at least we can predict them happening sooner, and learn to recognize the signs so we're no caught off guard. - Cody (Migraine. com Team Member)
spacer2 Member
Yes that is true! I have had them since childhood. Early treatment is important. As you age your signs sometimes change as well. The better you know your body the better you can warn the next migraine.
pleasemakeitstop Member
One of the ways I know Migraine is coming is that my partner, whom I really, love all of a sudden becomes incredibly irritating and annoying. Actually, it is simply my perception of what is happening that is skewed and his behavior is no different than normal. 
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="pleasemakeitstop" user-id="3880511"/> Irritation is a very common prodrome of migraine. We hear many people with migraine reporting that they feel fed up and like their skin is crawling with anger when they are not generally the type to get angry. And, like you said, the situation itself hasn't changed, it is our perception that makes it seem impossible to handle. It's great that you see this in yourself. It's often the sort of thing we don't realize until we look back in retrospect and take stock of our actions - after a migraine attack has already hit and perhaps we've already lashed out at a loved one! Amazing if we can catch the irritation in the moment and say "Ah- THIS is a migraine attack coming on!" Thanks for sharing! Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
ramonalee Member
My aura now is auditory ~ a loud buzzing like I have cicadas inside my head and my scalp starts to tighten, as if all my skin is being pulled into a tight, prickly knot on the top of my head.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="ramonalee" user-id="3863892"/> Fascinating! The buzzing sounds awful. The skin tightening in the scalp sounds a bit like allodynia. Have you heard of that before: <a href='https://migraine.com/search?s=allodynia' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/search?s=allodynia</a>. You are not alone! Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
DebVDH Member
Light sensitivity is my first migraine symptom. Next comes sound sensitivity and listening to someone talk to me is the worst. 
1. Rebecca C Moderator
 <inline-mention username="DebVDH" user-id="8540242"/> - thanks for sharing. It's common for individuals to experience different prodromal (pre-migraine) symptoms before the onset of a migraine headache. What you describe is a typical pattern for some migraineurs, where light sensitivity (photophobia) and sound sensitivity (phonophobia) are among the early warning signs. I too have this and find listening to someone talk to me to be unbearable. That's my indication it's time to treat migraine to help avoid the severe symptoms. Early treatment is important. Wishing you well. Rebecca (community moderator)
megl Member
Sometimes when I drink water and it's the best thing I ever tasted...then I know a migraine b is coming on.
1. Nancy Harris Bonk Moderator
 <inline-mention username="megl" user-id="3835779"/> Thank you for joining the conversation! Do you experience attacks frequently? Looking forward to hearing more from you, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>Migraine.com</a> Team 
2. Melissa Arnold Community Admin
 I'm curious about that, <inline-mention username="megl" user-id="3835779"/> ... are you typically not a fan of water, so the desire for it is what's unusual here? Or do you have a lot of thirst when you're heading for an attack? Thanks for sharing with us! -Melissa, <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team
megl Member
I like water, it's just that when I drink it and it really tastes good...I know I will have migraine symptoms. I have heard of others having the same aura.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember711" user-id="4728288"/> Always fascinating to hear about people's prodrome experiences that foretell an attack! This is one I've not heard of yet - so interesting! Thanks for sharing. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team
CommunityMember485 Member
I know a migraine is coming when things start to like brighter than they are. or I feel like I'm dreaming and things around me become background noise 
1. Tonya Henry Moderator & Contributor
 Thank you for sharing. I hope that you do not feel like this often. (Tonya, <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> contributor).
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember485" user-id="4707176"/> These are interesting markers. Like our side car mirrors that say "object may be closer than it appears)- I definitely relate to the feeling that everything seems brighter than usual before and during an active attack. Dreaming is fascinating- I've not heard much about that experience. We're so grateful you shared some of your journey here. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
hlssinthecloud Member
I haven't heard many speak of this so I'm curious if this happens to others. The day before a migraine attack I can feel hyper-productive and focused. It feels wonderful and I wish I could be as productive every day. But alas, it is almost always a sign that I will be miserable the next day 🙁
1. hlssinthecloud Member
 Yesterday was the first time I consciously noticed how hyper focused I felt and thought to myself that today was probably going to be bad…and it was/is. I noticed it previously but thought It may just be coincidence.
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="hlssinthecloud" user-id="8665805"/> - Good for you for becoming more aware of your prodromes. It really can take years to awaken to these symptoms and to connect them to a burgeoning migraine in real-time. Thanks for sharing. So glad you're with us. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
janran60 Member
My nose is cold, and/or one my nostril feels inflamed inside the very top part. 
1. Nancy Harris Bonk Moderator
 <inline-mention username="janran60" user-id="8875287"/> Thank you for joining the conversation. Does this happen with every attack? I tend to get a bit cranky, to put it nicely, before some of my attacks. Hoping today is a low pain day, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>Migraine.com</a> Team Member
2. Cody Leach Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="janran60" user-id="8875287"/> I'm sorry to hear that you also get that nostril sensation. That is something I personally experience from time to time, and it's VERY uncomfortable. Almost like my entire nasal cavity is burning with every breath I push through it. Do you tend to feel the sinus pain just at the beginning of a migraine, or does it last through the whole thing? - Cody (Team Member)
Karinakart Member
I know it is coming when - either side of my body feels not well, body ache on one side. - either side of my gum feel tender and sometimes swollen (sometimes mistaken as sore throat symptom) Thanks for sharing. The typo hits me hard 
1. Nancy Harris Bonk Moderator
 <inline-mention username="Karinakart" user-id="9764196"/> Thank you for sharing this with us and no worries about typos. We all make our share of them! It's so interesting to me the vast number of potential migraine attack symptoms. I'm sure yours will resonate with others. Sending you pain free wishes, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator (Team Member)
2. Cody Leach Community Admin
 Thanks so much for chiming in, <inline-mention username="Karinakart" user-id="9764196"/>. Do you also experience tooth pain when you have a migraine? It's such a weird sensation! It's like I can feel all the roots of my teeth, and they feel very tender to wind or air flow. Curious to hear if this is something you experience in addition to your gum tenderness. - Cody (Team Member)
spupp Member
This has changed for me through the years. Currently, clues that I’m getting a migraine include one or more of the following: A sudden and unexpected feeling of dread, seeing bright scattered flashing spots in one eye, seeing a single bright white spot travel irregularly across my vision in one eye, toothache-type pain behind an ear, sudden nausea, the inability to speak intelligibly, the inability to understand what I’m reading, ravenous appetite, putting things where they don’t belong (milk in the appliance cupboard for example), and irritability.
1. Melissa Arnold Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="spupp" user-id="3891438"/> Ginger is so popular for nausea, you're not alone! Some of our members use ginger chews, crystallized ginger or a spicy ginger ale (I think that's you, <inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/>!) as a key part of their migraine care routine. Here's a good article that breaks down all the ways that ginger can be useful: <a href='https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/ginger-benefits' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/ginger-benefits</a> Nature is a strange and wonderful thing! -Melissa, team member
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="spupp" user-id="3891438"/> Interestingly I met with my doctor yesterday and she mentioned that migraine is known for paralyzing the gut/digestion process. So, basically, when we are in the throes of an attack, our food just gets stuck in our stomachs. Those of us who struggle with nausea and vomiting can easily picture this happening because that's exactly how it feels. Ginger is a major helper in easing the pain that comes with the related discomfort of nausea and vomiting. I drink a brand of ginger beer called "Q" which is actually made with cayenne pepper so it's extra spicy. I agree with you that it's counterintuitive to picture how something spicy could calm our gut. And yet somehow it does! Thanks so much for chiming in! Warmly - Holly (team member)