What is silent migraine?

Silent migraine, also known as acephalgic migraine, is a type of migraine headache that doesn’t involve head pain. Instead of a throbbing headache, people with silent migraines experience visual disturbances, such as zigzag lines, blind spots, or flashing lights in their field of vision. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sensitivity to light or sound, and difficulty speaking. The term “silent migraine” can be misleading, as it implies that the migraine is without symptoms, but in fact, it still involves symptoms, just not the typical head pain. Silent migraines are relatively rare and the exact causes are not fully understood, but triggers may include stress, changes in sleep patterns, hormonal changes, and certain foods. If you suspect you may have silent migraines, it’s important to see a healthcare provider to confirm the diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.