Understanding Migraine with Aura and Stroke Prevention

Migraine with aura is a type of migraine that affects approximately 1% of the general population. It is characterized by a range of neurological symptoms, including weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, known as hemiplegia. Hemiplegic migraine attacks typically begin with an aura phase, which can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, and are often followed by a headache phase.

The degree of weakness can vary in severity, ranging from mild to severe, and may affect only part of one side of the body or the entire side. In some cases, individuals may experience hemiplegia on both sides of the body. The aura symptoms can often outlast the migraine headache itself, which typically lasts around an hour but can take up to a week to fully resolve.

Hemiplegic migraine is a chronic disorder that can be extremely painful and debilitating. Episodes can vary in severity and duration, with some individuals experiencing frequent attacks while others may have long periods of remission. In general, episodes tend to become less frequent as people age.

There are two forms of hemiplegic migraine: sporadic and familial. Sporadic hemiplegic migraine is more common and occurs without a clear family history of the disorder. Familial hemiplegic migraine, on the other hand, runs in families due to mutations in specific genes, such as CACNA1A, ATP1A2, SCN1A, and PRRT2.

In addition to weakness or paralysis, individuals with hemiplegic migraine may experience a range of aura symptoms, including visual disturbances, speech difficulties, numbness or tingling sensations, and changes in mental status. These symptoms can occur either before or during the headache phase.

While hemiplegic migraine is a rare disorder, it is important for individuals affected by it to stay informed about their condition and seek medical attention if they experience any severe or unusual symptoms. By understanding the causes and treatment options available, individuals with hemiplegic migraine can better manage their condition and improve their quality of life.

References:

* National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD). (n.d.). Migraine with Aura and Stroke Prevention. Retrieved from

Migraine with aura stroke prevention