Migraine aura

Migraine Aura

A migraine aura is a complex of neurological symptoms that can occur before the onset of a migraine headache. The aura phase is one of the four potential phases of a migraine attack, and it typically precedes the headache phase. However, it is possible to experience a migraine aura without a subsequent headache, a condition known as acephalgic migraine or silent migraine.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a migraine aura are primarily visual disturbances, but can also include sensory, motor, or verbal disturbances. These symptoms typically develop gradually over a period of 5 to 20 minutes and can last for up to an hour. The most common visual disturbances include seeing scintillating scotoma, or flickering lights, spots, or lines. Sensory symptoms can include paresthesia, or a tingling sensation in the skin, and motor symptoms can include muscle weakness.

Causes

The exact cause of migraine auras is not fully understood, but they are believed to be caused by a phenomenon known as cortical spreading depression. This is a wave of hyperactivity followed by a wave of inhibition in the neurons of the cerebral cortex. This wave can spread across the cortex at a rate of 3 to 5 millimeters per minute, causing the symptoms of the aura.

Treatment

Treatment for migraine auras is primarily focused on preventing the onset of the migraine headache. This can include taking migraine medication at the first sign of an aura. In some cases, preventive medications may be prescribed to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.

See also

• Migraine
• Scintillating scotoma
• Cortical spreading depression
• Acephalgic migraine