Migraines: Symptoms, Aura and When Medical Assessment Is Recommended (Canada)

Migraines are more than “just a bad headache.” They are a neurological condition marked by recurrent episodes of intense head pain that can disrupt daily activities, school, work and sleep. Many Canadians experience migraines at some point in life, and symptoms can vary widely from person to person.

Common Migraine Symptoms

Migraine pain often:

• Occurs on one side of the head, though both sides can be affected

• Feels pulsing or throbbing

• Worsens with movement or bright light

• Makes routine tasks difficult

Other symptoms can include:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Sensitivity to light, sound or smells

• Trouble concentrating

• Sweating or chills

• Abdominal discomfort

• General fatigue

A migraine attack may last 4 hours to 3 days. Many individuals feel unusually tired or “washed out” for up to a week afterward.

Migraine Aura

Around one-third of people with migraines experience aura, temporary neurological symptoms that occur before or during the headache phase. Examples include:

• Flashing lights, shimmering spots or blind areas in vision

• Tingling or numbness that may travel along the arm or face

• Dizziness or balance changes

• Difficulty speaking clearly

Aura typically develops over several minutes and lasts up to an hour. Some individuals experience aura without subsequent head pain.

When to Seek Medical Assessment

A healthcare provider may recommend assessment if migraines:

• Occur frequently

• Become more severe or change in pattern

• Interfere with school, work or daily activities

• Do not improve with typical symptom-relief strategies

Urgent medical evaluation is recommended for sudden or unusual symptoms that could indicate another condition (for example: neurological impairment, fever with headache, or new vision changes). A clinician can determine the appropriate level of care.

Why Awareness Matters

Migraines can affect learning, workplace performance, and quality of life. In Canada, health education and accommodations in schools and workplaces help individuals manage triggers, light sensitivity and recovery times.

First aid and CPR/AED training offered through St. Mark James Training supports broader health literacy and emergency preparedness. While migraines themselves do not require first aid intervention, knowing when symptoms warrant medical attention is an important skill for caregivers, educators and employers.

Educational Disclaimer

This article is for general learning only and is not a substitute for assessment, diagnosis or treatment. For individual concerns or worsening symptoms, consult a licensed healthcare provider.