Migraines with aura cause some migraine sufferers to see geometric patterns and shiny waves. Here’s what you need to know about this type of migraine.
The most well-known phase of a migraine is the headache phase. However, for about 10% to 30% of migraine sufferers, the head pain comes with some very distinct warning signs, commonly called an aura.
A migraine aura is a neurological phenomenon most commonly associated with visual disturbances before the onset of a headache. You may see things like zig zag lines, flashing lights, or other visual effects before your migraine begins.
However, some auras may involve sensory symptoms or speech and language disturbances.1,2
Read on to find out more about the causes and symptoms of this common type of migraine and learn how you can get relief when it does strike.
Migraine with aura symptoms
Migraines with aura include additional visual and non-visual symptoms that can provide a useful warning that a headache is on its way.1
The visual aura symptoms may include:1,2
- Geometric patterns
- Flashing lights
- Stars and spots
- Zig zag lines
- Sparkles
- A shimmering effect (similar to heat waves)
These may appear in the center of your field of vision and gradually spread outward.1,2 Some people also experience blind spots or tunnel vision.
Non-visual aura symptoms may include:1,2
- Tingling or numbness in the hands or face
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty with speech and/or hearing
- A sense of fear or confusion (rare)
- Partial paralysis or fainting (rare)
Auras usually develop over the course of five to 20 minutes and last fewer than 60 minutes. The head pain and other symptoms associated with classic migraines typically come after the aura but might begin during the auraas well.1
In rare cases, you may experience the aura without a migraine – this is more common in people over the age of 50.1,2
Causes of migraines with aura
The cause of migraines with aura isn’t fully understood.2 Like migraines without aura they are considered a neurovascular disorder. As nerve cell activity increases within the brain, inflammatory chemicals are released, causing swelling of the cranial blood vessels. As the blood vessels swell, they activate the surrounding pain receptors, which ultimately transmit pain signals to the brain.3
Migraines with aura seem to be triggered by many of the same things that can bring on migraine without aura, including:2
- Bright lights
- Stress
- Certain foods or drugs
- Hormonal changes – such as during menstruation
- Changes in altitude or air pressure
- Issues with sleep – lack of, or too much
