Q I see flashing lights in front of my eyes and my hands and feet feel numb before a migraine. Is this a migraine with aura?
A Yes, typical visual auras (lights, zigzags, blind spots) and sensory auras (numbness in hands and feet) are representative symptoms of migraines with aura. The aura usually lasts for 5 to 60 minutes and is followed by a headache.
Detailed Answer
An aura is a temporary neurological symptom that occurs when nerve impulse waves spread from the cerebral cortex. Visual auras (flashes, blind spots, zigzag lights) are the most common, and they may be accompanied by unilateral sensory abnormalities or speech disorders. Based on the ICHD-3 criteria, if it lasts for 5 to 60 minutes, is completely reversible, and appears before or during a headache, it is diagnosed as a migraine with aura.
Dongjedang Clinic Perspective
Dongjedang views aura symptoms as heat from the Liver Yang (Ganyang) rising upwards, causing temporary disruption to brain function. Applying pressure to acupoints on the crown of the head and temples for 1 to 2 minutes the moment you feel a premonitory sensation helps reduce the intensity of the attack. In many cases, consistently lowering liver heat with Cheongnoe-tang herbal medicine reduces the occurrence of premonitory sensations themselves.
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