Migraine with aura is a type of recurring headache that is accompanied by sensory disturbances called aura. Aura can include visual disturbances such as blind spots, zigzag lines, shimmering spots or stars, changes in vision, flashes of light, and other disturbances. The exact cause of migraine aura is unknown, but research indicates that it may be due to an electrical or chemical wave that moves across the brain. The part of the brain where the wave spreads determines the type of symptoms that a person might experience. Many of the same factors that trigger migraines can also trigger migraines with aura, including stress, bright lights, certain foods and medications, too much or too little sleep, and menstruation. It is important to see a doctor immediately if you have new signs and symptoms of migraine with aura, such as temporary vision loss, speech or language difficulty, and muscle weakness on one side of your body, as your doctor will need to rule out more serious conditions, such as a stroke.