Most migraines sufferers will tell you that the differences between a common headache and a migraine are very obvious. In addition to pulsating pain behind the eyes and over the top and sides of the head, migraines are simply debilitating. So much so that they can curtail physical activities, work, and keep the patient in bed until the migraine subsides.

In addition to the telltale pain caused by migraines, which is characterized as both intense and debilitating in nature, these symptoms are common for some time and right before the onset of severe migraine:

1. Blurred vision

The pain can be so intense from a migraine that many sufferers report blurred vision before and during a migraine. The impaired vision may also cause spotting, bright lights (or tracers), and a blind spot impairing field of vision.

2. Nausea

It’s quite common for migraine sufferers to experience nausea due to chronic migraine pain.

3. Light sensitivity

With many headaches, bright lights can often exacerbate pain. Migraines are no different and can become worse due to bright lights, strong scents, and loud sounds.

4. Bilateral pain

While a simple headache often causes pain behind the eyes or in the temple region, a migraine tends to stretch pain across both sides of the head (bilateral pain).

5. Lingering pain

Migraine usually begin as throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head, but more severe migraine sufferers can be literally debilitated by a migraine, unable to work or even stand or sit up. This pain can linger even after a migraine has passed.

As with any health condition, migraines are typically linked to triggers. If you suffer from one of the following common migraine triggers, it’s best to avoid these sources as much as possible:

• Bright lights—such as bright indoor lights, screens, and sunlight
• Loud, piercing sound
• Strong smells and fragrances
• Weather and temperature changes
• Dusty, musty rooms
• Caffeinated or alcoholic beverages
• High sodium
• Food additives (i.e., aspartame, MSG)
• Hormonal fluctuations (i.e., menstruation, menopause, oral contraceptives, or pregnancy).
• Lack of sleep or too much sleep
• Jet lag