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Headache and Migraine Glossary: Aura

by Teri Robert
for About.com

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition:

second phase of a Migraine with aura attack (previously called Classic Migraine). May present with varying symptoms including:

  • visual aura in which the patient sees flashing lights or zigzag lines, or may temporarily lose vision.
  • auditory aura in which the patient hears unusual sounds
  • olfactory aura in which the patient smells odors that aren't actually present
  • aphasia
  • others

Sometimes occurs shortly before a migraine headache begins. Auras may occur without headache.

Examples: Only approximately 20% of Migraineurs experience aura.
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