During a migraine episode, what process occurs in the cerebral arteries?

During a migraine episode, the correct process that occurs in the cerebral arteries is reflex constriction followed by dilation. This sequence is crucial in understanding the pathophysiology of migraines.

Initially, the cerebral arteries undergo constriction, which is a response to certain triggers associated with migraines. This constriction can lead to reduced blood flow to the brain and may contribute to the aura experienced by some individuals before a migraine attack. Following this phase of constriction, there is typically a compensatory response where the arteries dilate. This dilation is associated with inflammation and is responsible for the headache and other symptoms typical of a migraine, such as throbbing pain.

This phenomenon reflects a complex interplay of neurological and vascular changes during a migraine attack. The alternating phases of constriction and dilation are part of the underlying mechanism that triggers the severe headache and other associated symptoms.