how long does a migraine last

A migraine typically lasts between 4 to 72 hours, though some episodes can be shorter or longer depending on the individual. The duration can vary due to the different stages of a migraine, which include prodrome (warning phase), aura, headache, and postdrome (recovery phase). Some migraines may even extend beyond 72 hours in a severe form called status migrainosus. Children usually experience shorter episodes, around 1 to 2 hours or less. After the headache phase, symptoms may linger in the recovery phase for up to a day or two. Overall, migraines can vary widely in length and intensity from person to person and episode to episode.