Some migraines are so severe that they produce symptoms known as auras, causing vision changes, tingling or speech problems, which can resemble a stroke. Although experiencing this can be alarming, the good news is these symptoms usually don't last long. But can they lead to a stroke? We sat down with Jill Rau, MD, expert neurologist and headache specialist at HonorHealth Neurology, to learn more.
Exploring types of migraines
There are many types of migraines, but the two are those with an aura and those without … and the symptoms differ greatly.
Migraine without an aura
- Mild to severe head pain
- Pain that feels like it’s pulsing or throbbing
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Difficulty concentrating
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
Migraine with an aura
- Changes in vision or vision loss
- Seeing spots, zigzag lines or kaleidoscope patterns
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty speaking
These symptoms can last for hours or, in rare cases, for days.
“Hemiplegic migraines are a type of migraine with an aura that causes weakness on one side of your body and are often familial," says Dr. Rau. “So, you are more likely to experience one if your family members also have them."
Keep this in mind...
While most migraines do not lead to strokes, they can come with alarming symptoms such as weakness or numbness on one side of the body and difficulty speaking, mimicking a stroke. It’s important that when you experience these symptoms for the first time, you seek out medical care to rule out a stroke, especially if you have other vascular risk factors. Strokes are more common in individuals over 50 with:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
If you are a smoker, you are also high risk and should quit. Young women who suffer from migraines and use estrogen-based oral contraceptives while smoking also face an elevated risk of stroke.
"If you're experiencing stroke-like symptoms during a migraine, it's essential to seek emergency care," says Dr. Rau. “A CT and MRI can help rule out a stroke. If it is a stroke, they’ll give you treatments right away to help stop it or make it less severe."
At HonorHealth Neurology, you’ll benefit from expert care provided by our board-certified providers specializing in various neurologic conditions. Our team of specialists will ensure seamless support, guidance and coordination of your care under one roof.
Conquer your migraines
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Listen to your body
Experiencing numbness, weakness and dizziness? If these symptoms suddenly disappear, don’t breathe a sigh of relief just yet. What happens next could change everything.
Every second counts
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