Migraines often cause severe and persistent headaches that can lead to serious impairment. We have all heard of people who get migraines so bad they have to go to the emergency room. This shows just how serious and debilitating migraines can get. Yet, an estimated 1 in 6 American adults suffers from migraines.
One of the main factors that differentiate between a regular headache and a migraine is the intensity and duration of the headache. Basically, normal headaches are significantly less severe and will only last between 20 minutes to two hours. So, exactly how long can migraines last?
What is a Migraine?
A migraine is a type of headache characterized by severe pulsing or throbbing pain on one side of the head. Most people diagnosed with migraines also report experiencing other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
Stages of a Migraine
There are four stages of a migraine: prodrome, aura, attack, and postdrome.
Prodrome
This is the first stage where people usually experience changes in mood or behavior a day or two before the migraine headache starts. These changes can include mood swings, irritability, difficulty concentrating, dehydration, food cravings, neck stiffness, and water retention.
Aura
Aura refers to sensory disturbances that happen just before or during a migraine attack. These disturbances can include visual disturbances such as flashing lights, blind spots, or temporary vision loss. Other aura symptoms include tingling in the hands or face, difficulty speaking, and changes in smell or taste.
The aura phase usually lasts around 60 minutes and often serves as a sign of an impending migraine attack. However, it is possible to experience an aura without the subsequent headache (a silent headache).
Headache Attack
This is when the actual headache begins. During a migraine attack, most people will experience severe intolerable pain on one side of the head. Any sudden movements, bright lights, or loud noises during this period can worsen the pain dramatically.
Postdrome
Commonly referred to as a migraine “hangover,” this is the final stage of a migraine and is characterized by fatigue, confusion, and general weakness. Although the headache has usually subsided by this point, some people may still experience residual pain. Other symptoms can include nausea, dizziness, and trouble concentrating. Postdrome usually lasts up to 24 hours.
Migraine Duration
There is no definitive answer to how long a migraine can last, as the duration can vary from person to person and even from migraine to migraine. However, most migraines will last between four to 72 hours.
The postdrome phase can also factor into the overall duration of migraine, as some people may still experience residual pain for up to 24 hours after the actual headache attack has subsided.
Status Migrainosus
For some people, migraines can be so severe and last so long that it becomes a medical emergency. This condition is called status migrainosus, and it refers to a migraine where the headache phase goes on for more than 72 hours – even with treatment. People who experience status migrainosus usually need to be hospitalized for treatment and close supervision.
Treating Migraines
Pain medications are the first line of treatment for migraines. These can include over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as well as prescription medications such as triptans and opioids.
Other remedies that can help ease the symptoms include ice packs, relaxation techniques, and avoiding migraine triggers. If you experience migraines often, your doctor may recommend preventative treatments such as antidepressants and calcium channel blockers.
Final Thoughts
Migraines can be painful and overwhelming, often lasting hours or even days. Without treatment, the pain can be so severe that it interferes with your ability to function. Luckily, with the proper treatment and lifestyle changes, you can minimize the frequency and severity of your migraines.