It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between migraine aura and TIA, especially in cases of hemiplegic migraine, migraine with brainstem aura, or retinal migraine. Pay close attention to the red flags and consult a medical professional.
Characteristic
Migraine Aura
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
Visual Symptoms
Bright, positive visual phenomena
Both visual fields affected
Gradual movement across visual field
Typically lasts 15-60 minutes
Vision loss (negative symptom)
Affects one side
Vision remains static
Usually lasts 3-10 minutes
Sensory Symptoms
Gradual buildup and evolution
Tingling/prickling sensations (positive symptom)
Involves hand and face on one side
Sensations recur in stereotyped pattern
Abrupt onset
Numbness (negative symptom)
Unilateral paresis
Sensory changes are variable
Progression
Symptoms march from one type of aura to another (visual, sensory, speech)
Symptoms spread from one body part to adjacent areas
Affected areas involved first become the last to clear
Episodes typically span 20-30 minutes
Simultaneous involvement of different symptoms (e.g. motor, sensory) and body parts (e.g. arm, leg)
Biofeedback is a non-invasive, non-pharmacological approach that enables individuals to gain control over physiological processes linked to migraine, such as muscle tension, blood flow, and brain activity. Using monitoring equipment,...
Biofeedback is a non-invasive, non-pharmacological approach that enables individuals to gain control over physiological processes linked to migraine, such as muscle tension, blood flow, and brain activity. Using monitoring equipment,...
Chronic Pain Conditions Associated with Migraine Condition Description Association with Migraine References Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) A functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. Higher prevalence...
Chronic Pain Conditions Associated with Migraine Condition Description Association with Migraine References Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) A functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. Higher prevalence...
Migraine in elderly patients presents unique challenges that require specialized management approaches. Unlike classic migraine in younger adults, elderly patients often experience more bilateral or global headaches with less pulsating...
Migraine in elderly patients presents unique challenges that require specialized management approaches. Unlike classic migraine in younger adults, elderly patients often experience more bilateral or global headaches with less pulsating...
