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The Beyond Pain Foundation

Migraine types we support

Migraine guide

Aura without headache (silent migraine)

Some people get the aura of migraine, such as zigzag lines or tingling, with no headache afterwards. This is often called silent migraine. It isn't dangerous in itself, but because it can look like a mini-stroke, it's important to get it checked.

Aura usually lasts
5 to 60 minutes
Headache
None, or very mild
More common
With age
First episode
Always get it checked

This guide is general information, not medical advice. Medicines and treatments must be prescribed or recommended for you by a doctor or pharmacist. We do not give doses here.

Related guides: Migraine with aura, Migraine, aura and stroke, Retinal migraine.

What it is

In aura without headache, the usual aura symptoms happen but no migraine headache follows. Doctors may call it typical aura without headache or acephalgic migraine.

The Migraine Trust notes that it becomes more common with age, and that people who had migraine with aura when younger sometimes find the headache fades while the aura carries on. The National Migraine Centre points out that it is also seen in children.

Symptoms

  • Visual changes such as zigzag lines, shimmering, flashing lights or blind spots
  • Pins and needles or numbness that spreads slowly
  • Difficulty finding words
  • Tiredness or feeling foggy afterwards

The symptoms build gradually over several minutes and fully pass, usually within an hour.

Telling it apart from a mini-stroke

A mini-stroke (transient ischaemic attack, or TIA) can cause similar symptoms. Migraine aura usually builds up slowly with symptoms you notice, such as flashing lights or tingling. A TIA usually starts suddenly with symptoms of loss, such as losing sight or feeling.

Only a doctor can tell them apart, so a first episode, an aura that starts later in life, or one that changes should always be checked.

Treatment

Painkillers and triptans don't help aura on its own, so they aren't usually prescribed for it. Most people need reassurance and a clear diagnosis rather than regular medicine.

If episodes are frequent or affect your work or driving, your GP or a specialist may suggest a preventive medicine.

When to get urgent help

Never assume a first aura is migraine. Get help straight away if you're unsure.

Call 999 if you have

  • a sudden, extremely bad headache that peaks within minutes
  • weakness, numbness or a drooping face on one side, or slurred speech
  • sudden loss of sight
  • confusion, drowsiness or a seizure (fit)
  • a high temperature with a stiff neck or a rash
  • a headache after a head injury

Call NHS 111 if

  • you have aura symptoms for the first time
  • the aura lasts more than an hour
  • the aura is different from usual
  • you are over 50 and this is new for you

See your GP if

  • episodes are becoming more frequent
  • episodes affect your work or driving

Work and your workspace

Migraine can count as a disability under the Equality Act 2010 (the Disability Discrimination Act in Northern Ireland) if it has a substantial, long-term effect on your everyday life. Conditions that come and go still count, and the law looks at how you would be without treatment. If it applies, your employer must make reasonable adjustments.

Adjustments that often help

  • Being able to stop and rest during an episode
  • Not driving or using machinery until it passes
  • Regular screen breaks
  • Flexible hours on bad days
  • Time off for appointments

A migraine-friendly workspace

  • A chair with good lumbar and neck support
  • A desk big enough to put your screen at arm's length
  • Screen raised so the top is at eye level
  • A flicker-free monitor with an anti-glare or blue-light filter
  • Lighting without flicker or glare, and blinds to control daylight

Access to Work can pay towards equipment and support. Acas and Citizens Advice give free advice on your rights.

How The Beyond Pain Foundation can help

If NHS waits are too long, or the help you need is not available to you on the NHS, we may be able to fund:

  • A private specialist appointment to confirm the diagnosis sooner
  • Screen filters and lighting changes to reduce visual triggers
  • Travel to specialist appointments

Every award depends on your situation and the funds we have that month. A letter from your doctor, a headache diary and a written quote all help your application.

Apply for funding Check the requirements

Support and sources

The Migraine Trust

Information and support service

Information on every type of migraine, a free information and support service, and advice on treatment and work.

migrainetrust.org

National Migraine Centre

Charity headache clinic

Specialist appointments in person and online, including routine appointments for a voluntary donation, plus free factsheets.

nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk
Sources for this guide

Written in our own words from the sources above. Last reviewed: October 2026. Figures can differ between sources; where they do, we give the range.