Feb
What do aura spots look like in migraine?
Aura spots in migraine are visual disturbances that occur before or during a migraine attack. These phenomena manifest as zigzag lines, blind spots, light flashes or shadowy areas in the visual field. Approximately 20-30% of migraine patients experience these aura symptoms, which usually last 15-60 minutes and are often followed by migraine headache. The spots can take various forms and temporarily affect vision.
What are aura spots and how do you recognise them in migraine?
Aura spots are visual disturbances that arise from temporary changes in the brain during a migraine attack. These phenomena usually begin gradually and spread across the visual field, temporarily affecting vision.
The most common forms of aura spots are:
- Zigzag lines – Flickering, jagged lines that expand
- Blind spots – Dark or empty areas in vision
- Light flashes – Bright, blinking points of light
- Shadowy areas – Blurred or clouded vision in certain zones
These aura spots usually develop slowly over 5-20 minutes and disappear completely before the headache begins. They can occur in one or both eyes and often affect peripheral vision more than the central visual field.
What different types of aura phenomena exist besides spots?
Besides visual aura spots, there are various other types of migraine aura symptoms that affect the nervous system. These phenomena can occur separately or in combination and usually follow a specific sequence.
The main categories of aura symptoms are:
Visual aura (most common):
- Scintillating scotomas – Flickering blind spots
- Fortification spectra – Jagged light lines resembling fortress walls
- Photopsia – Spontaneous light flashes
Sensory aura:
- Tingling in hands, arms or face
- Numbness that spreads
- Prickling sensations
Speech-related aura:
- Difficulties with word finding
- Unclear speech
- Temporary speech problems
These aura phenomena usually last 15-60 minutes and often occur in a fixed order: first visual symptoms, followed by sensory and finally speech disturbances.
Why do some people get aura spots and others don’t?
Aura spots arise from a neurological process called cortical spreading depression, where a wave of electrical activity slowly spreads across the cerebral cortex. This process does not occur in everyone with migraine, due to genetic and physiological differences.
The main factors that determine whether someone experiences aura:
Genetic factors:
- Hereditary predisposition to migraine with aura
- Specific gene variations that affect brain sensitivity
- Family history of aura symptoms
Neurological differences:
- Sensitivity of brain cells to stimuli
- Variations in neurotransmitter function
- Different migraine triggers that can provoke aura
Approximately 70-80% of migraine patients never experience aura spots, while 20-30% regularly have these visual disturbances. The presence of aura can also vary per attack: some people sometimes have migraine with aura and sometimes without.
When should you worry about aura spots?
Although aura spots in migraine are usually harmless, there are warning signs that require immediate medical attention. It is important to know the distinction between normal migraine aura and more serious neurological symptoms.
Seek immediate medical help for:
- Sudden, very severe headache without previous history
- Aura that persists for longer than 60 minutes
- New neurological symptoms, such as paralysis
- Speech problems that do not improve
- Sudden loss of vision
- Confusion or changes in consciousness
Normal migraine aura is characterised by:
- Gradual development over 5-20 minutes
- Complete recovery within 60 minutes
- Recognisable patterns from previous attacks
- No lasting neurological deficit
When in doubt about new or changing aura symptoms, it is wise to seek medical advice, especially if migraine tips from the past are no longer effective.
How chiropractic helps with migraine with aura spots
Chiropractic treatment can significantly reduce migraine attacks with aura spots by addressing the underlying causes. We focus on optimising spinal function and the nervous system to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine.
Our specialised treatment methods include:
- Spinal alignment – Correction of misalignments that cause nerve irritation
- Y-strap treatment – Decompression of intervertebral discs for optimal nerve function
- Cranial Facial Release (CFR) – Treatment of skull and neck tension
- Nervous system optimisation – Improvement of communication between brain and body
Through this holistic approach, we address not only the symptoms, but also the structural causes that contribute to migraine triggers. Many patients experience a significant reduction in both headache and aura spots after regular treatment.
Would you like to know more about how we treat migraine? Contact us today for a personalised treatment plan. Visit our practice in Eindhoven or Valkenswaard and discover how chiropractic can change your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often per week should I undergo chiropractic treatment for migraine with aura?
Treatment frequency varies per person, but usually we start with 2-3 sessions per week during the first 4-6 weeks. As symptoms improve, we reduce to 1 session per week and eventually to maintenance treatments. Your chiropractor determines the optimal schedule based on the severity of your migraines and how you respond to treatment.
Can chiropractic also help if I only have aura spots without headache?
Yes, chiropractic treatment can also be effective for 'silent migraine' where only aura symptoms occur. The underlying neurological causes are often the same, and by optimising spinal function and nerve communication we can reduce the frequency of aura spots, even without accompanying headache.
What should I do if I get aura spots during a chiropractic session?
Inform your chiropractor immediately if you experience aura symptoms during treatment. We can adjust or pause the session until the aura passes. It is important that you feel safe, especially since aura spots can affect your vision. Your chiropractor can also apply specific techniques to reduce the intensity.
How long does it take before I notice improvement in my migraine with aura spots?
Most patients begin to notice improvement in frequency and intensity of their migraines after 4-8 weeks of regular treatment. Some experience less severe aura spots after just a few sessions. Complete stabilisation can take 3-6 months, depending on how long you have had migraine and the underlying causes.
Are there specific lifestyle adjustments I should make alongside chiropractic?
Yes, a holistic approach works best. Ensure regular sleep, avoid known triggers such as certain foods, stress or bright light. Hydration and light regular exercise support the chiropractic treatment. We also give you specific neck and shoulder exercises to do at home between sessions.
Is Y-strap treatment safe if I regularly have aura spots?
Y-strap treatment is safe and often very effective for migraine with aura, but does require expertise. Our chiropractors are specialised in this technique and adjust the intensity to your specific situation. For some patients with frequently occurring aura we start more cautiously and gradually build up to full decompression.
Can I combine chiropractic treatment with my current migraine medication?
Chiropractic can be excellently combined with medication and is often complementary to your current treatment. Always inform your chiropractor about which medications you use. Many patients can reduce their medication use over time, in consultation with their doctor, as the chiropractic treatment takes effect.
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