Causes of Silent Migraine

A silent migraine is a migraine where the patient gets one of more symptoms of a migraine except head pain. These symptoms can include chills, dizziness, diarrhea, weakness, nausea, confusion, difficulty speaking and aura. An aura is when you suddenly see dots or flashes of light or begin to hear strange sounds that aren't there. Even though it may not be as painful as a classic migraine, it still needs a doctor's attention.

Identification

• Although it is still unknown just why we get migraines, it is known that certain events (called "triggers") will lead to a migraine. If you keep a journal, you can soon identify these triggers and learn to avoid them.

Stress

• Not only can stress trigger a silent migraine, but, according to the Mayo Clinic, getting to relax after a long period of stress can also trigger a silent migraine.

Chemical Changes

• If you suddenly stop a medication, this can trigger a migraine. If you suddenly stop a drug like caffeine, that can also be a trigger. Women going through premenstrual syndrome also can get a silent migraine.

Eye Strain

• Strobe lights, intense bright lights, reading through dirty glasses or a spot of light glare on your computer monitor are all known triggers of silent migraine.

Other Triggers

• These include drinking red wine, eating certain aged cheeses, smelling paint fumes or other strong scents, not enough sleep and a change in altitude level.