10 Clear Signs That You Have Migraine

Migraines are not just ordinary headaches — they’re intense neurological conditions that can disturb your life in many ways. Here are 10 signs that you have migraine, so you can identify the problem early and take the right steps.

1️⃣ Intense, Pulsating Headache

One of the most common signs of migraine is a throbbing or pulsating headache, usually felt on one side of the head but sometimes shifting sides. The pain can be moderate to severe and may worsen with any physical activity, such as climbing stairs or bending down. Unlike a normal headache, a migraine headache can last anywhere from 4 hours to 3 days if untreated.

2️⃣ Sensitivity to Light & Sound

Another clear sign is photophobia (sensitivity to light) and phonophobia (sensitivity to sound). Even mild sunlight, bright indoor lights, or everyday sounds can feel unbearable. Many people with migraine prefer to lie in a dark, quiet room until the pain eases. If you feel your headache worsens with light or noise, you’re likely experiencing a migraine.

3️⃣ Nausea & Vomiting

Feeling nauseous is a classic migraine symptom. Many people experience a sick stomach or even vomit during a migraine attack. Some find it impossible to eat or drink anything due to nausea. This combination of headache and stomach upset clearly separates migraines from normal tension headaches.

4️⃣ Visual Disturbances (Aura)

About 20% of people experience a migraine with aura. An aura is a warning phase that usually comes before the headache. It includes seeing flashing lights, zigzag lines, blurry vision, or even temporary vision loss. Some people describe it as looking through broken glass. Visual aura typically lasts 20–60 minutes and disappears as the headache begins.

5️⃣ Neck Stiffness or Pain

A stiff neck or tight shoulders are common early signs that a migraine is about to start. Some people feel an ache at the base of the skull that radiates to the head. This neck pain can make it difficult to move or find a comfortable sleeping position during an attack.

6️⃣ Tingling or Numbness

Some people experience pins and needles, tingling, or numbness in the face, arms, or hands. This can happen before or during the headache. These sensations are usually temporary but can feel scary, especially if they occur with visual aura or speech difficulty.

7️⃣ Difficulty Speaking

Migraine can temporarily affect your ability to talk clearly. You might slur words, forget common words, or find it hard to make complete sentences. This is called transient aphasia, and it’s usually harmless but very concerning if you’re unaware that migraine can cause it.

8️⃣ Mood Changes

Many people report feeling unusually irritable, sad, or hyperactive a day or two before the migraine headache begins. These mood changes — part of the prodrome phase — can serve as an early warning sign. If you notice mood swings with no clear reason, combined with other signs, a migraine could be around the corner.

9️⃣ Food Cravings

Strangely, craving certain foods like chocolate, cheese, salty snacks, or caffeine can be a sign that a migraine is on its way. Doctors believe this is due to changes in brain chemicals like serotonin. So, if you find yourself suddenly wanting specific foods before the headache, it may be an early clue.

🔟 Frequent Yawning & Fatigue

Unusual yawning — even when you’re not tired — is a subtle but common sign of an approaching migraine. Along with this, you may feel drained, exhausted, or mentally foggy before, during, or after the headache. This fatigue can last for up to 24 hours after the pain stops.

🌿 When the Signs That You Have Migraine Need Medical Attention

If you regularly experience these 10 signs that you have migraine, it’s best to talk to an expert. Migraines can be managed with lifestyle changes, medication, and natural remedies if diagnosed correctly.

👉 For personalised Ayurvedic guidance, you can book an online consultation here and discuss your migraine with an expert.