Migraine Aura vs TIA

Posted on May 28 2024, By: Cerebral Torque

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) Symptoms manifest and resolve simultaneously Usual duration around 5-10 minutes

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