How long does a migraine last?
Last updated September 3, 2026.
A migraine attack usually lasts 4 to 72 hours untreated - but the full arc runs longer, with prodrome symptoms up to 2 days before the pain and a drained postdrome after. About a third of people get an aura, usually visual, which should not exceed an hour. Frequency ranges from rare attacks to several per week. Get seen if attacks are severe, worsening, longer than usual, more than weekly, or if the pattern changes. A sudden thunderclap worst-ever headache, or headache with weakness, slurred speech, confusion, or stiff neck, is an emergency until proven otherwise. Pymander is a free AI doctor, 24/7 by text, and can help you log attacks and prep for a real visit.
What to do
- Treat early in the attack: migraine medicines work far better taken at onset than at peak.
- Log every attack: duration, triggers, and what helped - that log is gold at the appointment.
- Rest in a dark, quiet room: light and sound sensitivity make stimulus the enemy.
- Know the emergency line: thunderclap onset or neuro symptoms mean emergency care, not a dark room.
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