Why do you get aura spots before migraines?

Aura spots are visual disturbances that often occur before a migraine attack. These neurological phenomena manifest as flickering lights, zigzag lines or blind spots in your visual field. Approximately 20-25% of people with migraine experience these aura symptoms, which arise from temporary changes in brain activity. The spots usually last 10-60 minutes and often provide a warning that migraine headache is approaching.

What are aura spots and how do you recognise them in migraine?

Aura spots are visual disturbances that present as flickering or moving patterns in your visual field. These phenomena often begin as small, bright spots that gradually become larger and spread across your vision. The most common form is the classic “fortification spectrum”: a zigzag pattern that resembles the battlements of a medieval castle.

You can recognise aura spots by various characteristics. They usually appear on one side of your visual field and move slowly to the other side. Some people see coloured lights, others experience temporary blind spots or blurred vision. This form of migraine with aura distinguishes itself from ordinary headache through these specific visual warning signals.

Besides the classic zigzag patterns, aura spots can also manifest as:

• Flickering stars or sparks
• Wave-like movements in your peripheral vision
• Temporary blind spots (scotomata)
• Distorted images or tunnel vision

Why do aura spots develop in your brain before a migraine?

Aura spots develop through a process called cortical spreading depression. This neurological phenomenon begins in the visual cortex, the brain area responsible for processing images. A wave of increased brain activity is followed by a period of reduced activity, which causes the characteristic aura symptoms.

This wave of brain activity spreads slowly across the cerebral cortex at a speed of approximately 2-3 millimetres per minute. When this wave reaches the visual area, the typical aura spots develop. The process also activates pain receptors and inflammatory reactions, which ultimately leads to the headache phase of the migraine.

Not everyone with migraine experiences aura symptoms. This difference relates to individual genetic factors and the sensitivity of certain brain areas. People who do experience aura often have increased sensitivity to migraine triggers such as stress, certain foods, hormonal changes or light stimuli.

How long do aura spots last and when does the migraine come?

Aura spots usually last 10 to 60 minutes, with the average duration being approximately 20-30 minutes. The visual disturbances begin gradually, reach their peak and then slowly disappear again. This timeline is fairly predictable, which helps people prepare for the coming migraine headache.

The headache usually begins within an hour after the aura spots disappear. Some people experience a brief pause between the aura phase and the pain, whilst others move directly from visual symptoms to headache. In rare cases, the aura can occur without headache following; this is called a “silent migraine”.

The complete migraine attack progresses through different phases:

• Prodromal phase: early warning signals (hours to days)
• Aura phase: visual and neurological symptoms (10-60 minutes)
• Headache phase: intense pain with accompanying symptoms (4-72 hours)
• Postdromal phase: recovery period with fatigue

What other symptoms can occur together with aura spots?

Besides visual disturbances, various neurological symptoms can occur during the aura phase. These symptoms develop because the cortical spreading depression extends to other brain areas responsible for language, sensation and motor functions.

Sensory disturbances are the second most common aura symptoms. You may experience tingling or numbness that usually begins in your fingertips and spreads via your arm to your face and tongue. These sensations follow a specific pattern and usually last 10-20 minutes.

Other possible aura symptoms are:

• Speech problems: difficulties with word-finding or articulation
• Concentration problems: confusion or mental fog
• Motor disturbances: weakness in arms or legs (rare)
• Hearing disturbances: sounds that seem amplified or muffled
• Smell changes: perceiving strange odours

This combination of symptoms can be alarming, especially during your first migraine experience. It is important to know that aura symptoms are temporary and do not cause permanent damage.

How chiropractic helps with migraine and aura symptoms

Chiropractic treatments can contribute to migraine prevention by improving spinal alignment and optimising the nervous system. Misaligned neck and upper back can cause tension that activates migraine triggers and increases the frequency of aura spots.

Our holistic approach focuses on improving communication between brain and body through gentle spinal adjustments. This can help reduce sensitivity to migraine triggers and support your body’s natural healing process.

Specific benefits of chiropractic migraine treatment:

• Reduced tension in neck and shoulder area
• Improved blood circulation to the head
• Optimised nerve function and communication
• Natural pain relief without medication
• Preventive care to reduce future attacks

At Ruggensteun we offer specialised treatments for people with chronic migraine and aura symptoms. Our experienced chiropractors can develop a personal treatment plan that suits your specific situation. For more information about migraine treatments or to make an appointment, you can directly contact us. Discover more about our holistic approach on our homepage.