4 questions answered about migraine with aura

Approximately 25–30% of people who experience migraines have migraines with aura. This type of migraine comes with sensory disturbances before the actual migraine attack. Here are 4 questions answered about migraine with aura.

1. What is migraine with aura?

Migraine with aura is a neurological condition that differs from a “normal” migraine. The disorder has a temporary set of symptoms preceding or accompanying the migraine headache. The aura symptoms typically lasts between 20-60 minutes. You are not likely to experience aura every time you get a migraine.

While a migraine with aura is uncomfortable, it is not dangerous. However, its symptoms can resemble those of more serious conditions, such as a stroke. Seek medical attention of you suspect anything unusual or concerning or if the aura symptoms lasts longer than an hour.

2. What are the symptoms?

Common symptoms of a migraine with aura are

• Visual symptoms: Seeing flashes of light, zigzag patterns, or blind spots
• Sensory symptoms: Tingling or numbness, often starting in the hands or face
• Speech and language symptoms: Difficulty finding words or slurred speech

The aura is often followed by the typical migraine phase which can include throbbing head pain, nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.

3. What triggers a migraine with aura?

A migraine with aura shares the same triggers as “normal” migraines. Common triggers are

• Stress and lack of sleep
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Certain foods
• Sensory stimuli and environmental factors such as the weather
• Exercise
• Rebound headache

Triggers vary significantly from person to person so make sure to keep a Migraine Calendar. A calendar can help you identify personal triggers by tracking symptoms, lifestyle factors, and environmental conditions leading up to a migraine. The insight can empower you to avoid or minimise exposure to your triggers.

4. What are the treatment options?

Treatment options for migraine with aura are

• Acute treatments: Pain relief medications like NSAIDs, triptans and medications to address nausea
• Preventive Treatments: prescription medications such as beta blockers, antidepressants, anti-seizure drugs, Botox and the new CGRP medicine.

Consult your healthcare provider to tailor a migraine treatment plan. Track and identity your triggers and migraine symptoms beforehand via a Migraine Calendar so you can share the documentation with your health care professional. Detailed data and insight enable them to provide you with the optimal care.

With the correct help and knowledge of your triggers, you can reduce the impact that migraines have on your life.