What's a Migraine Aura?

• Migraine auras are visual indicators that a migraine headache is on its way. Although they sometimes linger or develop during the headache, the majority occur 15 to 30 minutes before the actual headache begins. They are characterized by blurred spots, zigzag lines or flashes of light in one or both eyes. They also can be accompanied by dizziness, numbness or tingling sensations. According to WebMD, migraine auras occur in about 20 percent of migraine headaches. Migraine headaches are also experienced more commonly by women. The auras precede the standard migraine symptoms of extreme pain, nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound.
  
  

What Causes the Aura?

• Little is known about the exact cause of migraine auras, but some researchers say they have to do with two chemicals: serotonin and dopamine. These chemicals regulate brain function and when something goes wrong with them, the body's immune system is activated. The blood vessels in the brain then expand to accommodate immune cells and release even more chemicals that regulate the muscles in the vessels, causing the vessels to expand and contract, and giving way to a terrible headache. The aura can then be caused by a chemical or electrical wave that travels across the visual centers of the brain and activates them. Scientists also link migraines and migraine auras to being overweight and family history. Triggers such as certain foods and drinks, mental states, physical states and environmental elements are also thought to cause migraines and migraine auras.
  
  

Are Migraine Auras Dangerous?

• When diagnosed as migraine auras by a doctor, the auras are not considered life-threatening, although certain studies have found a correlation between migraine auras and an increased chance of stroke due to cranial blood flow issues. Some prescriptions and over-the-counter medications used to treat the pain, however, can have side effects. Serotonin syndrome is the most serious and can be fatal. It happens when migraine medication is used with some anti-depressants. You should always inform your doctors about all the medications you are taking. Rebound headaches happen when medications are used in excess and result in the pills causing, instead of relieving, pain. Ibuprofen and aspirin, when used in excess or over time, can cause abdominal pain, bleeding and ulcers.