Migraine aura, experienced by 15% to one-third of migraineurs, presents as psychedelic visual disturbances such as zigzag lines, circles, flickering lights, and blind spots, and is believed to be caused by cortical spreading depression (CSD) altering blood flow and activating sensory pathways in the brain. While not dangerous on its own, it can be mistaken for more serious conditions like a mini-stroke, and is associated with an increased risk of stroke, especially in those taking certain hormonal birth control. However, it can provide a warning window to take steps to prevent or lessen the severity of an impending migraine.
Migraine aura, a sensory disturbance that can cause temporary visual impairment, is experienced by approximately 25% of migraine sufferers. The Washington Post interviewed four chronic-migraine sufferers to gain insight into their experiences with aura. Bethany Noël, a professional artist, captures her aura in her artwork, which includes heat waves, swirls of color, and deep galaxy swirls. Keisha Patterson, who developed chronic migraine with aura after a car accident, experiences foggier vision that resembles the glare around a car's headlight. Walker Young sees a fireworks show dancing across his vision, while Nahid Shukralla sees moving shapes, colors, and flashes of light. These individuals share their struggles with chronic migraine and the various treatments they have tried, including CGRP drugs and preventive medications like Botox and Emgality.
