A scintillating scotoma is a type of visual disturbance often experienced as part of a migraine aura. It appears as a flickering or shimmering area in the field of vision that can interfere with seeing clearly. This area usually starts near the center of vision and gradually spreads outward, often outlined by zigzagging lines that some describe as looking like the walls of a castle. These lines are typically black and white but can sometimes be colored. The scintillating scotoma may cause parts of the visual field to seem missing or blurred, making it difficult to read or drive during an episode.
This phenomenon is a form of scotoma, which means a partial loss or alteration of vision surrounded by normal sight. Unlike the natural blind spot everyone has, a scintillating scotoma is a temporary and noticeable visual effect linked to neurological activity, especially in migraines. It is caused by changes in the brain’s visual cortex, where nerve cells become temporarily overactive or disrupted.
People experiencing a scintillating scotoma might see flashing lights, shimmering patterns, or blind spots that move across their vision. These visual symptoms usually last from a few minutes up to an hour and often precede the headache phase of a migraine. In some cases, the scotoma can be accompanied by other migraine symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and fatigue.
While scintillating scotomas are most commonly associated with migraines, they can also occur due to other medical conditions affecting the visual system or brain. However, in the context of migraines, they serve as a warning sign that a headache may soon follow.
Sources
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Migraine
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scotoma
https://migraineworldsummit.com/author/infomigraineworldsummit-com/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-i5p3-b2-c
