What are the visual symptoms of a migraine aura and how can they be managed?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Migraine aura causes visual symptoms like zigzag lines, flashing lights, blind spots, or shadows, typically lasting 20–60 minutes before resolving on their own. While these visual disturbances are usually harmless, they can signal an oncoming migraine attack. Prescription medications can both prevent aura episodes and reduce migraine severity, and a healthcare provider can help you build the right treatment plan.

Not sure if what you're experiencing is a migraine aura or something else? Visual symptoms can overlap with other conditions, and identifying the cause is the first step toward relief. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand your symptoms and confidently navigate your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Visual symptoms of a migraine aura typically occur before the headache phase of a migraine. Common visual symptoms include seeing temporary zigzag patterns, flashes of light, or shadows in your vision. These visual disturbances usually develop over a few minutes and can last from a few minutes to up to about an hour. Visual symptoms of a migraine should improve on their own.

Certain action steps and prescription medications can prevent and reduce migraine symptoms. Here are some examples:

Reduce Sensory Input: When you are experiencing migraine symptoms, resting in a dark, quiet room can help you feel better.
Use Medications Recommended by a Healthcare Provider: Various medications are available to prevent and reduce migraine symptoms. A healthcare provider can find the most appropriate prescription medications for your symptoms.

If your symptoms are frequent, severe, or worsening, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider to receive a personalized medical assessment and treatment plan. You can start by taking our free AI-powered symptom checker to better understand your symptoms and what might be causing them.

(References)

Viana M, Tronvik EA, Do TP, Zecca C, & Hougaard A. (2019). Clinical features of visual migraine aura: a systematic review. The journal of headache and pain, 31146673.
Viana M, Hougaard A, Tronvik E, Winnberg IG, Ambrosini A, Perrotta A, et al. (2024). Visual migraine aura iconography: A multicentre, cross- .... Cephalalgia : an international journal of headache, 38388359.
Singla M, Sulena 2, Kale R, Brar J, & Bhardwaj S. (2021). Visual Aura in Migraine: An Analysis of 165 Patients in a .... Journal of neurosciences in rural practice, 33927518.

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