Published on: 7/4/2025
What are the visual symptoms of a migraine aura and how can they be managed?
Visual symptoms of a migraine aura often include seeing zigzag lines, flashes of light, or shadows. These visual symptoms usually improve on their own. Prescription medications are available to prevent and reduce migraine symptoms. You can talk to a healthcare provider to learn about the best treatment plan for you.
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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 received a personalized medical assessment and treatment plan.
(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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