Hektoen International

A Journal of Medical Humanities

Tag: scintillating scotoma

  • The migraine aura and royal astronomers

    JMS PearceHull, England, United Kingdom Spleen sighs for ever on her pensive bed,Pain at her side and megrim at her head.— “Rape of the Lock”, Alexander Pope (1688-1744) About one third of migraine sufferers experience an aura1 or warning that begins suddenly, lasts about twenty to forty minutes, and most commonly affects vision, and less often,…

  • Body and soul, balance and the Sibyl of the Rhine: The life and medicine of Saint Hildegard of Bingen

    Mariel TishmaChicago, Illinois, United States St. Hildegard of Bingen wrote two medical texts, three books of visions and prophecies, one of the first mystery plays, songs, musical compositions, and letters. She consulted on many matters during her lifetime, including medicine. One episode involved a woman who had “gone insane.” Hildegard recommended the woman find respite…