Migraines are painful, debilitating headaches. Some sufferers may experience an aura during an episode. An aura is a sensory warning from the body either preceding or accompanying the onset of a migraine. The word “aura” simply refers to the feeling of these symptoms and the indication of a migraine episode starting. An aura may present itself in a variety of ways such as dizziness, ringing in the ears, sensitivity to light, and the appearance of zigzag lines within the line of vision. These warning symptoms are known as a prodrome. The prodrome of an aura typically last five to 20 minutes prior to the onset of a migraine attack, but they have been known to continue even after the headache has subsided.
Currently, doctors have no known cause for why some sufferers experience an aura with their migraines. They believe that the chemicals serotonin and dopamine, found in the brain, play some role in an aura being present. They feel that these chemicals overreact to the changes in the body before a migraine begin and send the body into a type of “overdrive” and the overproduction of these chemicals causes the aura. Additionally, through small study groups, doctors have noted that genetics and weight are contributing factors. If a family member is diagnosed with migraines, it is twice as likely that you will have them. Being overweight can cause additional pressures on the body resulting in migraines and the body’s slowed response can cause the sufferer to experience an aura.
Treatment
Experiencing a migraine with aura is not very common, but thankfully they are not life-threatening. These warning signs and symptoms are just another part of dealing with migraines and they can be treated the same as a traditional migraine. During an episode, continue with your current treatment plan, as suggested by medical practitioner. Other steps found to help relieve these symptoms and reduce the length of the attack are to lie down in a dark, quiet room and place a cool compress over the area where the pain is most prevalent. If your symptoms worsen after taking these precautionary measures, contact your doctor immediately.
Tags: aura, headache, migraine stages, migraine symptoms, migraine treatment, postdrome, prodrome
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