Aura

Aura

An aura is a perceptual disturbance experienced by some individuals, often preceding a migraine or seizure. Auras can manifest as visual, sensory, or motor phenomena and are considered a warning sign of an impending neurological event.

Types of Auras

Auras can be classified into several types based on the symptoms they produce:

Visual Auras

Visual auras are the most common type and may include:

• Scintillating scotoma: A flickering, zigzag pattern that often expands over time.
• Photopsia: Flashes of light or bright spots.
• Fortification spectra: Resembling the walls of a fort, these are jagged, shimmering lines.

Sensory Auras

Sensory auras involve changes in sensation, such as:

• Paresthesia: Tingling or numbness, often starting in the fingers and spreading up the arm.
• Dysesthesia: Abnormal sensations that may be painful or uncomfortable.

Motor Auras

Motor auras are less common and may include:

• Weakness: Temporary weakness or paralysis, often on one side of the body.
• Speech disturbances: Difficulty speaking or forming words.

Causes

Auras are believed to be caused by a wave of electrical activity that spreads across the cerebral cortex. This phenomenon, known as "cortical spreading depression," leads to changes in blood flow and neuronal activity, resulting in the symptoms of an aura.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing auras involves:

• Patient history: Detailed accounts of the aura's characteristics and timing.
• Neurological examination: Assessing for any underlying neurological conditions.
• Imaging studies: MRI or CT scan to rule out other causes.

Treatment

Treatment of auras focuses on managing the underlying condition, such as:

• Migraine prophylaxis: Medications like beta-blockers, anticonvulsants, or antidepressants.
• Seizure management: Antiepileptic drugs to control seizures.

Prognosis

Auras themselves are not harmful, but they can be distressing and may indicate a more serious underlying condition. Proper management of the associated condition can reduce the frequency and severity of auras.

See Also

• Migraine
• Epilepsy
• Cerebral cortex

External Links

• Mayo Clinic: Migraine with aura