What duration of headache indicates a migraine if untreated?

A migraine is typically characterized by a headache that lasts between 4 to 72 hours if left untreated. This duration is one of the key features that helps distinguish migraines from other types of headaches. The intensity of the pain is often described as moderate to severe, and it can be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.

Choosing this duration as the correct answer is important for understanding the typical progression of migraine attacks and can aid in recognizing the need for treatment options. Headaches lasting less than 4 hours might be too short to be classified as a migraine, while headaches exceeding 72 hours could indicate a different medical condition, such as status migrainosus, which requires medical intervention. Knowing this criteria is essential for both diagnosing and managing migraines effectively.