Migraine with aura is characterized by altered visual senses, known as aura, which can last from 15 to 60 minutes, followed by a very strong and constant headache. In addition to headache and visual sensations, migraine with aura can result in sensory changes, excessive sweating, nausea and difficulty speaking, for example.
Migraine with aura has no definite cause, and therefore has no specific treatment, but drugs that relieve symptoms and reduce headache such as Paracetamol, for example, are usually indicated. In addition, it may be necessary to change some eating or behavioral habits, such as sleeping a little, as these factors can contribute to migraine with aura.
Causes of migraine with aura
The causes of migraine with aura are still not very clear. One of the theories says that the aura followed by headache is related to the narrowing of blood vessels present in the brain.
The use of contraceptives may favor the symptoms of migraine with aura, as it may stimulate changes in circulation. Also, consuming some foods and beverages such as teas, sodas, coffee, citrus fruits, fried foods and fats, as well as sleeping more or less than usual or staying too long without eating, can result in migraine with aura. Learn how to make the migraine diet.
Main symptoms
The most common manifestation are visual disturbances, which can arise as flashes of light, dark spots or bright images, for example. Other symptoms of migraine with aura are:
- Noise in the ear;
- Difficulty speaking;
- Dizziness or loss of balance.
- Difficulty in moving the eyes;
- Blurred vision;
- Excessive sweating;
- Nausea or vomiting;
- Tingling in the head, lips, tongue, arms, hands or feet;
- Hallucinations such as the sensation of falling, or the objects being larger or smaller than in reality.
Although the aura is more likely to occur before the headache, it is possible for the person to have these visual symptoms during or after the migraine attack. If the episodes of migraine with aura are frequent, it is important to consult the general practitioner or neurologist to make the diagnosis and indicate the best type of treatment.
Migraine with aura in pregnancy
Migraine with aura in pregnancy tends to decrease due to the regular level of estrogens, which allow for dilation of the vessels and prevention of headaches. However, if the woman has a migraine with constant aura in pregnancy, it is recommended that you consult your gynecologist to start the appropriate treatment, which is usually done with hormone replacement. Here's how to relieve headache during pregnancy.
What to do in migraine with aura
What you can do in migraine with aura is to take an analgesic remedy, such as Paracetamol and AAS, or medicines prescribed by your doctor, such as Sumax or propranolol hydrochloride. In addition, you should rest in a quiet, dark place with no sound or auditory stimuli until the pain passes. Learn about the treatment options for migraine with aura.
