Ask Dr. Armstrong: Why do I experience an aura before a migraine?

Auras are sensory disturbances that precede or accompany a migraine. These disturbances can manifest as flashing lights, zigzagging lines, or blind spots in one’s vision. Some people might experience tingling on one side of the face or in the arm or leg. The aura phase is like an early warning system, signaling that a migraine is about to start. Its significance lies in this predictive quality, allowing sufferers some time to potentially manage or preempt the migraine or find a place to rest.