Understanding Aura Migraine: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Aura migraine is a type of headache that is often characterized by a visual aura that precedes or accompanies the headache. It affects about 25% of people who suffer from migraines (Lipton, 2018). This type of migraine can be particularly debilitating and can significantly impact a person's quality of life. In this essay, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatments of aura migraine.




Symptoms

Aura migraine is characterized by a range of symptoms, with visual disturbances being the most common. These disturbances can include flashing lights, zigzag lines, and blind spots. Other symptoms can include tingling or numbness in the face or hands, difficulty speaking, and confusion. These symptoms typically last for about 20-60 minutes, followed by a headache that can last for several hours or even days (Lipton, 2018).


Causes

The exact cause of aura migraine is not fully understood, but research has suggested that it may be related to changes in the brain's electrical activity. During a migraine with aura, there is a decrease in blood flow to certain areas of the brain, which can lead to visual disturbances and other symptoms (Schoenen et al., 2019). Other factors that can trigger aura migraine include stress, changes in sleep patterns, hormonal changes, and certain foods.


Treatments

There are a number of treatments that can be used to manage aura migraine. One of the most effective treatments is medication, such as triptans, which can help to relieve the pain and other symptoms associated with the headache (Lipton, 2018). Other medications that may be used include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and anti-nausea medication.


In addition to medication, there are a number of lifestyle changes that can be made to manage aura migraine. These can include getting enough sleep, avoiding trigger foods, reducing stress, and getting regular exercise. In some cases, relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation may also be helpful (American Migraine Foundation, 2021).


Conclusion

In conclusion, aura migraine is a debilitating condition that can significantly impact a person's quality of life. While the exact cause of this type of migraine is not fully understood, there are a number of treatments available that can help to manage the symptoms. Medications such as triptans can be effective, as can lifestyle changes such as getting enough sleep and reducing stress. With the right treatment and management strategies, people with aura migraine can live a fulfilling and productive life.


References:


  1. American Migraine Foundation. (2021). Migraine with aura. Retrieved from https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/migraine-with-aura/
  2. Lipton, R. B. (2018). Migraine with aura. New England Journal of Medicine, 378(7), 657-666. doi: 10.1056/NEJMcp1708919
  3. Schoenen, J., Robert, A., & Vandenheede, M. (2019). Migraine aura: An update on research and clinical practice. Current Opinion in Neurology, 32(3), 381-388. doi: 10.1097/WCO.0000000000000686


Dr. Zeyad Zaben
Optometrist, Spain

Location: 08500 Vic, Barcelona, Spain

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