There are four stages of a migraine, and the last stage is known as the postdrome, or the migraine hangover. Not everyone gets one, but it is believed that 80% of migraine sufferers experience a postdrome. Let us learn more about the symptoms of a migraine hangover and what not to do after a migraine.
Are You Having a Migraine Hangover?
This so-called postdrome can last just a few hours, or it can continue on for days after the actual migraine. Symptoms of a migraine hangover can vary from person to person.
Symptoms of postdrome may include:
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feeling moody or on edge
- Gastro problems
- Shoulder and neck stiffness
- Weakness
- Eyes may be sensitive to light
- Nausea
- The feeling of being completely drained
Scientists are not sure why this occurs, and the severity of the migraine itself has no relationship to the hangover phase.
What Not to Do After a Migraine
Once you reach the postdrome phase of your migraine, do not think everything is over and you can go back to normal activities. In fact, that is the worst thing you can do.
Do Not Rush Things
Relax and take it easy for a day or two. Trying to jump back into your daily schedule could not only make your hangover worse, but could bring on another migraine. No stressful activities also includes no strenuous exercise until it passes.
Do not drink Alcohol and limit Caffeine
Sometimes coffee and caffeine can ease migraine symptoms, but make sure to practice moderation in the postdrome phase while your brain is especially sensitive. Avoid alcohol, and be sure to consume lots and lots of water. At the same time, have some small nutritious meals and healthy foods.
Do Not Shy Away From Sleep
This is especially true if you could not sleep during the migraine itself. Your body craves some restful sleep, so embrace naps. Do not feel guilty, just enjoy.
Do Not Ignore Your Aches and Pains
Those physical aches, plus the neck and shoulder discomfort, should not be overlooked. Pull out your heating pad or an ice pack and use it where it hurts. Avoid screen time and totally relax that neck, even from looking down at your handheld device. Your neck pain may be a symptom of the migraine process itself.
Ask Puget Sound Neurology about taking over-the-counter meds for those aches and pains.
Avoid the Light
Since most people in hangover mode are sensitive to light, keep your windows partially covered. This is another good reason to close your laptop for a bit.
Do Not Encourage Migraines
It seems like a no-brainer, but if you avoid triggering a migraine, you will not have the postdrome phase.
- Eat regular meals that are nutritious and do not skip meals.
- Avoid all your known triggers.
- Keep to a regular sleep schedule.
- Keep an up-to-date journal. Using a migraine app, such as Ember, can help you track your migraines and identify trends. It is also helpful for your provider when working with you to establish the best care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a migraine postdrome or migraine hangover?
The postdrome is the fourth and final stage of a migraine, often called a migraine hangover. It is the drained, foggy period that follows the headache, and it is thought to affect about 80% of people who get migraines.
How long does a migraine hangover last?
A postdrome can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days after the migraine itself. The length and symptoms vary from person to person and are not tied to how severe the migraine was.
What should you not do after a migraine?
Avoid rushing back into a busy schedule, strenuous exercise, alcohol, and moderate caffeine. Do not skip sleep or ignore lingering aches, and limit bright light and screen time while you recover.
How can I prevent the postdrome phase?
The best way to avoid a postdrome is to avoid the migraine itself. Eat regular, nutritious meals, stay away from your known triggers, keep a consistent sleep schedule, and track your symptoms in a journal.
Talk With Puget Sound Neurology in Tacoma, WA
Contact Puget Sound Neurology at (253) 284-4488 if you are experiencing increasing symptoms of a postdrome phase of a migraine headache. Our providers are here to help you find relief at our office in Tacoma, WA.