postdrome

Postdrome is the period that follows the acute phase of a migraine attack or other neurologic event such as a seizure. In migraine, the postdrome is commonly described as the migraine hangover and can occur after the headache phase has resolved.

During this phase, people may experience a variety of symptoms. Common reports include fatigue, difficulty concentrating, memory lapses, mood changes, neck stiffness, sensitivity to light and sound, mild head discomfort, and yawning. The timing and intensity vary widely between individuals. Typically the postdrome lasts about 24 to 48 hours but can extend for a day or two longer in some cases.

Pathophysiology is not fully understood. The postdrome may reflect lingering neurovascular changes, residual neurotransmitter fluctuations, and the brain's gradual return to baseline energy metabolism after the attack.

Diagnosis is clinical, based on the patient's history of a recent migraine followed by the described symptoms. There are no specific laboratory or imaging tests required, unless another condition is suspected.

Management focuses on supportive care and ongoing migraine control. Rest, hydration, and a gradual return to activity are advised. Some patients report relief with simple analgesics or caffeine, but there is no established postdrome-specific therapy. Preventive migraine treatment may reduce postdrome burden by reducing overall attack frequency.

Most people recover to their baseline within a few days; the prognosis is generally favorable, though the postdrome can be disabling if symptoms are severe or prolonged.