Functional Prodrome in Migraines

Abstract

Purpose of review: Migraine attacks often follow prodrome symptoms. Prodrome symptoms are inconsistently and incompletely defined in literature. Here we define the functionality of the common prodrome symptoms and introduce additional ones that have so far eluded investigators. Prodrome types are not just symptoms but represent physiological changes that signal why a migraine may occur. Recent findings: Migraine associated prodrome types are considered as symptoms and precursors to an oncoming migraine with or without pain. Summary: The understanding of the function of each prodrome may help in understanding migraine, how and what needs to be treated. By understanding the function of prodrome, migraines may be averted with success.