Common Types of Migraine Aura and Their Symptoms

Migraine aura can appear before or during an attack, affecting vision, sensation, smell, or speech. Episodes usually last 20–60 minutes.

Although aura is not present in every migraine, it often serves as a warning sign that a headache is imminent.

Medical emergency

If you experience loss of consciousness, sudden weakness on one side of the body, or other severe symptoms, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Migraine with aura raises the risk of stroke, so avoiding certain medications and seeking prompt treatment is essential.

Types of Migraine Aura

Visual Aura

Visual aura is the most common form, occurring in 90–99 % of migraine auras. Symptoms are highly variable and may include:

• Flashes of bright light
• “Foggy” or blurred vision
• Zig‑zag lines (scintillating scotoma)
• Blind spots
• Small, bright dots
• Seeing distortions that resemble heat waves or water

Sensory Aura

About 36 % of migraine auras involve sensory disturbances, which may occur with or without visual symptoms. Typical sensations are:

• Numbness or tingling that starts in one arm and spreads up the side of the body
• A “pins‑and‑needles” feeling

Dysphasic Aura

Present in roughly 10 % of cases, dysphasic aura affects speech and language. Symptoms can include:

• Slurred or garbled speech
• Mumbling
• Difficulty finding the right words

Olfactory Aura

Olfactory aura is less common but notable. It produces a heightened sense of smell and may generate phantom odors. A 2022 study reported that sufferers often perceive unpleasant smells such as cigarette smoke or gasoline during an aura.

Motor Aura

Motor aura occurs in hemiplegic migraine, a rare subtype. It typically appears alongside other aura types and is characterized by unilateral weakness that may start in the hands, then spread to the arm and face. Weakness can sometimes switch sides during the attack.

Brainstem Aura

Brainstem aura accompanies basilar migraine, another rare form. Symptoms arise from the brainstem or both hemispheres and may include:

• Vertigo (a sensation of spinning while staying still)
• Dysarthria (slurred speech)
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Impaired hearing
• Lack of coordination
• Confusion
• Occasional fainting

Migraine Phases

Prodrome (Premonitory Phase)

The prodrome can last from a few hours to several days and often precedes the aura or headache. Common prodromal signs include mood changes, neck stiffness, food cravings, and increased thirst. Early use of medication, trigger avoidance, and relaxation techniques may help prevent the headache.

Headache Phase

This is the phase most people associate with migraine. Pain is usually unilateral but can affect both sides and may last from a few hours up to three days. Additional symptoms often accompany the pain, such as nausea, light sensitivity, and sound sensitivity.

Postdrome (Migraine Hangover)

After the headache subsides, many people experience a postdrome lasting several hours. Symptoms can include fatigue, muscle aches, difficulty concentrating, sensitivity to light, and dizziness.

When to Seek Medical Care

Contact a healthcare professional if migraine attacks interfere with daily life, if aura symptoms are new or change, or if you notice any of the following:

• Sudden onset of symptoms
• Aura lasting longer than one hour
• Symptoms that do not fully resolve

Effective management often requires a combination of acute and preventive medications, especially for migraine with aura. A proper diagnosis helps ensure you receive the right treatment.