Content
Migraine with aura is characterized by a change in vision that leads to the appearance of small luminous spots or blurring of the limits of the field of vision, which can last from 15 to 60 minutes, and which is followed by a very strong and constant headache. . In addition to headache and visual sensations, migraine with aura can also result in sensory changes, excessive sweating, nausea and difficulty in speaking, for example.
Migraine with aura has no definite cause, and therefore does not have a specific treatment, but drugs that relieve symptoms and reduce headache, such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen, are usually indicated. In addition, it may be necessary to change some eating or behavioral habits, such as sleeping little, as these factors can contribute to the onset of migraine.
Main symptoms
The most common manifestation are visual disturbances, which can appear as flashes of light, dark spots or bright images. But other symptoms include:
- Sensation of noise in the ear;
- Difficulty speaking;
- Dizziness or loss of balance.
- Difficulty moving your eyes;
- Blurred vision;
- Excessive sweating;
- Nausea or vomiting;
- Tingling in the head, lips, tongue, arms, hands or feet;
- Temporary loss of vision;
- Hallucinations such as the sensation of falling, or that objects are larger or smaller than in reality.
Although the aura is more common before the headache, it is possible that the person will experience these visual symptoms during or after the migraine attack. If migraine episodes with aura are frequent, it is important to consult the general practitioner or neurologist to make the diagnosis and indicate the best type of treatment.
Possible causes of migraine with aura
The causes of migraine with aura are not yet well understood. One of the theories states that the aura followed by the headache is related to the narrowing of blood vessels present in the brain.
The use of contraceptives can favor migraine symptoms with aura, as it can stimulate changes in circulation. In addition, the consumption of some foods and drinks, such as teas, soft drinks, coffee, citrus fruits, fried foods and fats, as well as sleeping more or less than usual or going too long without eating, can result in migraines with aura. Learn how to diet for migraines.
Why migraine improves in pregnancy
Migraine with aura in pregnancy tends to decrease due to the regular level of estrogens, which allow dilation of the vessels and prevention of headaches. However, if the woman has migraine with constant aura in pregnancy, it is recommended that she consult the gynecologist to start the appropriate treatment, which is usually done with hormone replacement. Here's how to relieve headache in pregnancy.
How the treatment is done
There is no specific treatment for migraine with aura, however, there are several ways to relieve pain, which depend on the cause of the migraine and the intensity of the symptoms. Thus, it is always recommended to consult a neurologist, or a general practitioner, to assess each case and initiate the most appropriate treatment.
Remedies for migraine pain work best when they start to be taken as soon as the first sign of pain appears, and are usually:
- Anti-inflammatories, such as Ibuprofen or Naproxen, and Acetominophene: reduce the inflammatory effects on the membranes that cover the brain and also reduce the production of substances responsible for pain, most used in mild to moderate crises;
- Triptans, such as Sumatriptan or Rizatriptan: they are usually the remedies with the best effect, as they reduce the production of substances responsible for pain, most used in moderate to severe and chronic crises;
- Opioids, such as Codeine: are used only in cases where the treatment cannot be done with other drugs or when the crises are very intense and do not relieve with other medications;
- Antiemetics, such as Plasil: remedies for nausea and vomiting are used to relieve pain attacks when administered together with anti-inflammatories and triptans.
In most cases, migraine remedies are used in the form of pills, however, some also exist in the form of nasal spray, which have a faster effect.
These drugs should only be used during the crisis, as most can cause side effects when used for long periods of time. To avoid the appearance of a new crisis, one should choose other types of remedies that are safer for long-term use.
Remedies to prevent migraine attacks
The use of remedies to prevent future migraine attacks are mainly used in cases where migraine appears more than 2 times a month. Some examples of medicines that can be used are:
- Tricyclic antidepressants, such as Amitriptyline or Nortriptyline;
- Remedies for high blood pressure, such as Propranolol, Atenolol or Metoprolol;
- Anticonvulsants, such as Valproate, Gabapentin or Topiramate.
In addition, the injection of botox into the muscles around the head can also help prevent migraine in some people and therefore may also be indicated by the doctor.
Natural treatment options
In addition to the medication treatment indicated by the doctor, it is very important to have good daily habits, such as sleeping at least 7 hours, avoiding stressful situations and exercising regularly.
However, eating can also help a lot to reduce headaches or prevent attacks, so it is important to avoid foods that normally lead to the onset of a migraine, such as red wine, beer, onions, chocolate or processed meats, for example. In addition, supplementing with magnesium, vitamin B12 and coenzyme Q10 also appears to help the chances of having a migraine. Here are some tips from our nutritionist:
To complement this natural treatment, teas from some medicinal plants, such as Tanaceto leaves (Tanacetum parthenium)or the root of Petasites hybridus, for example. See the recipe for other natural remedies that fight migraine.