The word "scintillating scotoma" refers to a visual aura often associated with migraines. It is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /ˈsɪntɪleɪtɪŋ skəʊˈtəʊmə/. The word begins with the "s" sound, followed by the "k" sound in "scotoma." The two "t" sounds are represented with a double "t" and the "a" sound is represented with both "a" and "o" vowels. The word ends with the "m" sound, pronounced as "muh" with a slight nasal tone.
A scintillating scotoma is a distinctive visual disturbance characterized by the perception of flickering lights or shimmering zigzag lines that typically appear in a jagged pattern. It is considered a type of visual aura, a temporary abnormality of vision that precedes or accompanies a migraine headache.
The scotoma, which refers to a blind spot or area of impaired vision, is usually located in the central visual field and expands outward over a span of approximately 20 to 30 minutes. It typically affects only one eye, although it may also occur in both eyes simultaneously. Individuals experiencing a scintillating scotoma often report a distortion or warping of their visual field, making it challenging to focus on objects.
The cause of scintillating scotoma is believed to be related to changes in blood flow within the brain, particularly in the area responsible for processing visual information. These alterations may be triggered by various factors such as stress, hormonal fluctuations, certain foods, or even changes in the weather. While it is most commonly observed in individuals with migraines, it can also occur in isolation without the subsequent headache.
Scintillating scotoma is usually self-limiting, meaning it resolves on its own without any specific treatment. However, during an episode, it is recommended to find a quiet and dimly lit environment to minimize visual triggers. If scintillating scotoma is recurrent or impacts an individual's daily life, a consultation with a healthcare professional is advised to explore potential underlying causes and consider appropriate management strategies.
Fortification-spectrum, teichopsia; the appearance of a dark patch with bright zigzag outline in the visual field of one or both eyes; it is usually of short duration and is indicative of eyestrain or follows intense mental or physical labor.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "scintillating scotoma" has its etymology rooted in Latin and Greek.
The term "scotoma" comes from the Greek word "skotōma" (σκότωμα), meaning darkness or dimness. It is used in medicine to refer to an area of impaired or lost vision in the visual field.
The word "scintillating" is derived from the Latin word "scintillare", meaning to sparkle or twinkle. It is used to describe the appearance of shimmering or flickering lights in the visual field.
When combined, "scintillating scotoma" refers to a visual phenomenon characterized by the perception of a flickering or shimmering arc of light, often accompanied by blind spots, which can occur during certain types of migraines or as an aura preceding a migraine attack.