Aura (symptom)

Lore & Background

An epileptic aura is a subjective sensory or psychic phenomenon due to a focal seizure originating from a specific brain area responsible for the function expressed in the aura. This localization helps identify where the alteration causing the seizure is located. In most cases, the epileptic aura is followed by other seizure manifestations, such as a convulsion, as the epileptic discharge spreads; rarely it remains isolated. When auras occur, they can allow some people with epilepsy time to prevent injury to themselves or others before losing consciousness.

Reader's Guide

The migraine aura is visual in the vast majority of cases because dysfunction starts from the visual cortex. It is usually followed, after minutes to an hour, by the migraine headache, though it can occur without headache. The aura can persist for the duration of the migraine and may leave the person disoriented and confused. People with migraines often experience more than one type of aura, and some have the same type every time. Auras can be confused with panic attacks or anxiety attacks, complicating diagnosis. The differential diagnosis for symptoms like paresthesias, derealization, dizziness, chest pain, tremors, and palpitations can be challenging. The nature of an aura provides insight into the localization and lateralization of the seizure or migraine. Common auras include motor, somatosensory, visual, and auditory symptoms. Activation in the brain during an aura can spread through multiple regions continuously or discontinuously, on the same side or both sides.

Did You Know?

• Auras can be confused with sudden onset of panic, panic attacks, or anxiety attacks.
• If the motor cortex is involved in overstimulation, motor auras can result.