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Flashing lights, blind spots and blurred vision are just a few ways to describe a migraine with aura. One in three people with migraines experience this temporary sensory disturbance and now face a new concern: an increased risk of stroke.<\/p>\n
What is a migraine with aura?<\/p>\n
A migraine with aura is a type of headache that includes temporary sensory disturbances, often before or during the headache itself.<\/p>\n
Aura symptoms usually last less than an hour and can occur before or during the headache phase. While they can be alarming, they typically resolve on their own.<\/p>\n
Can they cause a stroke?<\/p>\n
New American Academy of Neurology<\/a> research found that middle-aged and older adults who experience migraines with aura may have a 73% higher risk of ischemic stroke<\/a> compared to those without the migraine symptom.<\/p>\n \u201cWe frankly don\u2019t know the exact reason for this increased risk,\u201d explains Dr. Arth Srivastava,<\/a> a vascular neurologist at Advocate Health Care<\/a>. \u201cBut it\u2019s most likely because the electrical changes in the brain that cause aura can also change the pattern of blood flow, which increases risk of stroke. There is also known brain vessel narrowing at the time of migraines that can induce small clot formation leading to stroke.\u201d<\/p>\n What can you do to lower your stroke risk?<\/p>\n While important, reducing migraine<\/a> frequency isn\u2019t enough to lower stroke risk. Dr. Srivastava says it\u2019s even more important to be extra vigilant about controlling cardiovascular risk factors, which include:<\/p>\n Modifying your lifestyle: Avoid smoking (tobacco and non-tobacco products), eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight. When should you see a doctor?<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s important to see a doctor if your migraines change in frequency, severity or symptoms,\u201d Dr. Srivastava says. \u201cEarly evaluation can help rule out other conditions, such as stroke, and ensure you\u2019re getting the right care. Always seek immediate medical attention if you have stroke symptoms, like sudden dizziness, vision loss, one-sided arm or leg weakness, or speech changes.\u201d<\/p>\n
\nManaging your risks with your primary care doctor: If you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol,<\/a> diabetes<\/a> or sleep apnea<\/a> in addition to migraines with aura, be sure to work with your doctor to manage those conditions and improve your overall stroke risk as much as possible.
\nWorking with a specialist: A neurologist can help you develop a personalized treatment plan to manage migraines effectively.
\nKnowing your triggers: Try to avoid common migraine triggers, such as lack of sleep, dehydration and high stress.
\nPrioritizing sleep and hydration: Getting regular, high-quality sleep and proper hydration can help reduce migraine frequency and benefit your overall vascular health.<\/p>\n