Migraine with aura is a distinct type of migraine that presents unique symptoms known as “auras.” Migraine with aura can significantly affect vision, as it is characterized by a range of visual disturbances that can be frightening and disorienting, and they can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour.
The exact cause of visual disturbances is not fully understood but is thought to be related to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It is good that Eyeonce Eye Clinic staffs two of the best eye doctors in Seoul, South Korea: Dr. Paik Dong Won and Jung Rase Som. They are acclaimed for managing and treating migraines with aura, involving identifying triggers, lifestyle modifications, and, in some cases, prescribed medications.
Migraine with aura VS. Scintillating Scotoma
While both aura migraine and scintillating scotoma involve disturbances, their nature, symptoms, causes, and treatment approaches differ. Aura migraines are migraine headaches with various sensory auras while scintillating scotoma is a specific visual disturbance that may be associated with other underlying medical conditions.
Causes and Risk Factors
Migraine with aura is a complex neurological condition that often involves visual disturbances and can significantly affect a person’s vision. Some of its causes and risk factors are the following:
- Genetics – If you have a family history of migraine, especially those with aura, you are at a higher risk of developing this condition.
- Abnormal brain activity – Migraines, including those with aura, are believed to result from abnormal brain activity. During a migraine with aura, a wave of electrical activity spreads across the visual cortex (the part of the brain responsible for vision). This abnormal activity can trigger the visual disturbances characteristics of aura migraines.
- Hormonal changes – These hormonal changes can occur due to pregnancy, menstrual cycle, or birth control methods.
- Environmental triggers – Prolonged exposure to bright or flickering lights, strong odors, weather changes, and even high-altitude locations can trigger migraines with aura.
- Dietary factors – Some individuals may be sensitive to certain foods or additives, such as aged cheese, processed foods, and artificial sweeteners, which can trigger migraines, including those with aura.
- Stress and emotional factors – Stress can lead to muscle tension and blood flow changes, known migraine triggers.
- Sleep disturbances – Irregular sleep patterns, insufficient sleep, or excessive sleep can all increase the risk of migraines, including those with aura.
- Caffeine and medication overuse – Overuse of caffeine-containing products or certain medications, such as pain relievers, can lead to a phenomenon known as medication-overuse headache, which can include migraines with aura.
It is essential to seek timely intervention from a trusted eye center such as Eyeonce Eye Clinic for migraine with aura. Our ophthalmologists provide tailored treatment options best suited to your unique needs.
Aura Migraine and Vision
Migraine with aura directly affects vision through a range of visual disturbances, including:
- Flashing lights
- Blind spots
- Shimmering or wavy patterns
- Color changes
- Tunnel vision
These visual disturbances often precede the headache phase of the migraine but can persist for a period before gradually resolving.
Symptoms
The symptoms of migraine with aura can vary from person to person. However, they typically manifest as:
- Visual disturbances
- Tingling or numbness
- Speech difficulties
- Sensory changes
For individuals experiencing frequent or severe aura migraines, seeking comprehensive eye examination and management from an eye care professional at Eyeonce Eye Clinic is crucial. Comprehensive eye evaluations and neurological assessments can help determine the cause of visual disturbances and ensure proper care.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing aura migraines typically involves the following steps:
Diagnosis
- Medical history – Our eye care professional at Eyeonce will start taking a detailed medical history. It can include asking about the frequency and nature of your headaches, the presence of auras, family history of migraines, and potential triggers.
- Symptom assessment – Our eye doctors will then ask you to describe your aura symptoms, including any visual disturbances, sensory changes, and speech difficulties.
- Physical examination – A thorough physical examination will be conducted to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms, mainly how this migraine affects your vision.
- Imaging test – MRI or CT scans may be ordered to rule out other neurological conditions causing your symptoms.
Treatment
Once a diagnosis of aura migraine is confirmed, treatment options can be tailored to manage symptoms and reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Treatment strategies may include:
- Medications for acute relief – Triptans, such as sumatriptan, are commonly prescribed to alleviate migraine symptoms, including the visual disturbances associated with aura. These medications work by narrowing blood vessels and reducing inflammation in the brain, which can help relieve visual symptoms.
- Pain relievers – Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin can help reduce discomfort and pain associated with the headache phase of an aura migraine.
- Anti-nausea medications – Anti-nausea medications may be prescribed if nausea is a prominent symptom during a migraine attack. These can help prevent vomiting and ensure you can tolerate any medications to alleviate visual disturbances.
- Relaxation – Our eye doctors at Eyeonce always emphasize the importance of resting in a dark, quiet room to reduce sensory input and alleviate some visual symptoms.
It is important to note that treatment for aura migraines should be tailored to the individual’s specific symptoms and needs. Consulting with eye care professionals such as Dr. Paik Dong Won and Jung Rase Som are experts in developing an effective treatment plan that addresses visual disturbances and overall management of aura migraines.
Why choose Eyeonce Eye Clinic Gangnam for eye migraine with aura treatment?
Utmost Patient Care
Our eye care professionals and staff ensure to give you your money’s worth. We guarantee you receive the best medication possible and assure you that you are guided and understood, making you feel comfortable and confident at every step.
Comprehensive Consultation
Eyeonce Eye Clinic offers comprehensive eye examinations to evaluate your condition and determine the best aura migraine treatment. Our ophthalmologists take their time to cater to your questions and address your concerns, ensuring you make an informed decision about our vision correction options.
Expert Eye Doctors
Our ophthalmologists, Head Director Dr. Paik Dong Won and Medical Director Dr. Jung Sae Rom, are highly knowledgeable and adept in treating migraines with aura. They always use the latest techniques and technologies to ensure optimal results.
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no known cure for migraine with aura; however, it can be effectively managed with the proper treatment.
Auras are not dangerous, but they are a warning sign for an impending migraine attack, which can be debilitating.
A migraine with an aura episode can vary but often lasts between 20 minutes to an hour.
Conclusion
Migraine with aura is a complex condition that affects many aspects of a person’s life. While there is no cure, understanding its triggers, symptoms, and available treatment options can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with this condition. Remember, consulting in a trusted eye center, such as Eyeonce Eye Clinic in Seocho-gu District, South Korea, is essential for effective management!
