Migraine is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Symptoms can range from excruciating headaches to nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.

However, there are two silent changes that can signal an impending migraine attack, which often go unnoticed until it’s too late:.

1. Changes in Mood or Behavior

Many people who suffer from migraines experience a change in mood or behavior hours or even days before the onset of a headache.

This can include feelings of fatigue, irritability, depression, or anxiety, as well as changes in appetite or sleep patterns. While these changes may seem insignificant at first, they can be an important clue that a migraine attack is looming.

One possible explanation for these changes is a disruption in the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that help to regulate mood, behavior, and other bodily functions.

In people with migraines, certain neurotransmitters may become imbalanced during the prodrome phase, which is the period of time leading up to a headache.

The exact cause of these imbalances is not yet fully understood, but they may be related to changes in blood flow to the brain, or to alterations in the activity of certain genes that are involved in migraine susceptibility.

Regardless of the underlying cause, it’s important to recognize and track any changes in mood or behavior that may be associated with migraines, so that you can take steps to manage your symptoms before they become unbearable.

2. Visual Disturbances

Visual disturbances are another increasingly common indication of an upcoming migraine attack. These can range from flickering lights or blind spots to more severe symptoms such as hallucinations or temporary loss of vision.

Some people may also experience tingling or numbness in their limbs, or difficulty speaking or understanding words.

Like changes in mood or behavior, visual disturbances can be a sign that a migraine is on its way.

They are thought to be caused by changes in the blood vessels that supply the brain and eye, which can trigger abnormal electrical activity in the visual cortex of the brain. This can lead to the perception of flashing lights or other visual disturbances, even in the absence of any external stimuli.

Not all people who suffer from migraines will experience visual disturbances, but those who do may find them to be a particularly disruptive and distressing symptom.

If you notice any unusual visual symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention right away, as they may be a sign of a more serious condition, such as an eye or brain disorder.

Conclusion

Migraines can be incredibly disruptive to daily life, but by recognizing the silent changes that signal an impending attack, you can take steps to manage your symptoms and minimize their impact.

If you experience any changes in mood or behavior, or unusual visual disturbances, speak to your doctor right away so that you can get the care and support that you need.