Migraines are so much more than headaches. For many, the symptoms spill into areas that feel strange—unusual, even a bit awkward—and yes, maybe a smidge embarrassing to talk about. But here’s the truth: if you live with migraine, these odd sensations are more common than you think.
Let’s look at ten symptoms people often feel hesitant to discuss—but shouldn’t have to.
1. Weird, unpleasant tastes or phantom smells
On Migraine.com, Tonilyn Hornung described this migraine symptom as “the strangest taste in my mouth… not acidic. It’s not metal. It’s not good.” You’re not alone if your migraines cause phantom smells. These odd sensory shifts, although jarring, are not uncommon at all.
2. Nose stuffiness or sudden congestion
Feeling like you’ve walked through a dusty field—or having your sinuses swell out of nowhere—is another frequently shared, though rarely highlighted, migraine symptom.
3. Clumsiness, unsteadiness, or dizziness
Migraines may bring more than head pain. Some people feel physically unbalanced, or just off their own body. Clumsiness and vertigo often go hand in hand with an attack.
4. Cold hands, feet, or nose
A surprising number of people with migraine report that extremities—or even just the tip of their nose—feel colder than usual during an attack. It may feel odd and give you the chills, but this circulatory quirk is a recognized symptom.
5. Trouble finding words or processing language
Many people feel their words “vanish”—unable to get the right ones out, or sounding like they’re babbling. This cognitive fog can leave people feeling ashamed or embarrassed, even though it is a common experience.
6. Visual distortions
Ever wave your hand and see a trail of images? Or perceive geometric or kaleidoscopic patterns, flashing shapes, tunnel vision, color distortions—or even scenes that feel like an acid-trip Alice in Wonderland moment? These visual auras can feel surreal, but are experienced by many during migraines
7. Abdominal discomfort or even the “abdominal migraine”
Some people experience intense midline abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or pallor—sometimes for hours. This condition, known as abdominal migraine, can feel especially isolating because it doesn’t always align with “typical” migraine symptoms.
8. Hallucinations
From phantom voices or odors to tactile hallucinations, these experiences can feel deeply unsettling. Some describe hearing or smelling things that aren’t there—a symptom that’s both real and rarely discussed.
9. Seeing dots, spots, or “lighting up” parts of your vision
Those who experience scintillating scotoma—a visual aura—describe flickering lights, spots that expand, zigzag patterns, or fields of shimmering interference. It’s disorienting and can feel frightening, especially if you’re already trying to function through a migraine.
Why We Might Feel Embarrassed—and Why We Shouldn’t
First, these symptoms are part of the migraine experience, not something to be ashamed of—it’s your nervous system in overdrive. Yet the invisibility of many symptoms breeds self-doubt and embarrassment.
What You Can Do When These Feel “Awkward”
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Know you’re not alone. These symptoms—no matter how odd—are widely experienced.
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Talk, even if it’s just to someone online. Sharing experiences can end isolation.
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Journal. Track when these symptoms occur—they might help clue you in sooner or guide treatment.
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Seek compassionate care. A trusted provider who understands the full spectrum of migraine can be life-changing.
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Remind yourself: It’s neurological, not moral. These symptoms don’t reflect weakness—they reflect how strong your nervous system is reacting.
Migraines are complex, messy, and deeply human experiences. You’re not weird for having symptoms—they’re part of a condition that deserves empathy, understanding, and support. Let yourself feel seen.