Helping Prevent Migraines with Aura
Migraine with aura is a less common (25%) type of migraine that can cause symptoms such as visual disturbances, tingling sensations, speech difficulty or even temporary paralysis or weakness on one side of the body. People with this condition may also experience severe headaches, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. It is believed that changes in brain blood vessels and nerve cells may contribute to the development of migraine with aura, and there may be a genetic predisposition as well.
To reduce the risk of getting migraines with aura, there are several actions a person can take:
- Identify and avoid triggers: Keeping a migraine journal can help identify potential triggers such as certain foods, stress, or weather changes. By noting these triggers, individuals can take steps to avoid them and potentially reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.
- Manage stress: Stress is a significant trigger for migraines. Finding ways to manage stress, such as through exercise, yoga, or meditation, can help reduce the risk of experiencing migraines with aura.
- Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep can also trigger migraines. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night and maintain a regular sleep schedule to help prevent migraines.
- Avoid certain medications: Some medications can trigger migraines. If you suspect that certain medications are causing your migraines with aura, speak with a healthcare professional about alternative options.
- Take preventive medications: If you experience frequent and severe migraines with aura, healthcare professionals may recommend preventive medications to reduce their frequency. These medications need to be taken on a regular basis (daily or as prescribed), even when not experiencing a migraine. It's important to remember that what works for one person may not work for another, so it's crucial to work closely with a healthcare professional to determine the best approach for you. People should check with their healthcare provider about short-term (acute) medicines to take if a migraine occurs while on preventive therapy.
In addition to these actions, there are also home remedies and over-the-counter medications that some people find helpful in relieving and preventing migraines. However, it's important to note that these remedies should be discussed with a doctor before trying them out.
When experiencing an episode of migraine with aura, finding a quiet and dark room and closing your eyes can be helpful. Placing a cold compress on the forehead or the back of the neck may also help ease migraine pain. Start acute treatment medications as soon as possible.
Overall, while there is still much unknown about migraines with aura, making lifestyle changes such as managing stress, getting enough sleep, and avoiding triggers can help reduce the risk of experiencing these debilitating headaches. If you suddenly experience new types of migraine attacks or notice an increase in attacks with aura, it's important to schedule a visit with a doctor for further evaluation and guidance.