A migraine can cause severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, usually on one side of the head. It can often lead to nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine attacks can last for hours or days, causing interference in your daily activities.

When to See a Doctor

If you regularly have signs and symptoms of migraine, make sure to keep record of your attacks and symptoms. Then make sure to follow up with your doctor about the attacks. Even if you have a history of headaches, see your doctor if the pattern changes or your headaches begin to feel stronger.

See your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room if you have any of the following signs and symptoms:

• An abrupt, severe headache like a thunderclap
• Headache with fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision,
  weakness, numbness or trouble speaking
• Headache after a head injury, especially if the headache worsens
• A chronic headache that is worse after coughing, exertion, straining or a sudden movement
• New headache pain after age 50