Ocular migraines, also known as retinal migraines or visual migraines, are a lesser-known but impactful condition that can temporarily affect your vision. At Vision Care, your eye health is our top priority. 

We’re here to break down what ocular migraines are, why they happen, and what you can do if they occur. Let’s take a closer look at this condition that can have a big impact on your daily life.

WHAT ARE OCULAR MIGRAINES?

Ocular migraines cause temporary visual disturbances that typically affect one eye. Unlike classic migraines, which often involve severe headaches, ocular migraines may or may not include head pain. These episodes are usually brief, lasting from a few minutes to an hour, and resolve on their own without lasting effects. The condition is relatively rare, affecting about 1 in 200 people who experience migraines. While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, ocular migraines likely stem from temporary changes in blood flow or nerve activity in the visual system.

SYMPTOMS OF OCULAR MIGRAINES

Recognizing the symptoms of ocular migraines is key to understanding when to seek care. Common symptoms include:

• Visual Disturbances: Temporary blind spots (scotomas), flashing lights, zigzag patterns, or shimmering spots in one eye.
• Vision Loss: Partial or complete loss of vision in one eye, often described as a “graying out” or “blackout” effect.
• Headache: A mild to severe headache may occur before, during, or after the visual symptoms, though this is not always present.
• Other Symptoms: Sensitivity to light or sound, nausea, or difficulty concentrating may accompany the episode.

These episodes typically last less than 60 minutes. But here’s the important part: if your symptoms last longer or are accompanied by confusion, numbness, or weakness, seek immediate medical attention. It could be something more serious like a stroke or retinal issue.

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS

Ocular migraines are thought to be triggered by similar factors as other types of migraines, possibly involving a temporary spasm in the blood vessels supplying the retina or visual cortex. Common triggers include:

• Stress: Chronic stress or sudden anxiety can precipitate an episode.
• Dietary Factors: Caffeine, alcohol, or certain foods like aged cheeses and processed meats.
• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause.
• Environmental Factors: Bright lights, loud noises, or changes in weather.
• Sleep Disruption: Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns.

Women are more likely to experience migraines in general, and hormonal fluctuations may play a significant role in ocular migraines. Other risk factors include a family history of migraines, smoking, and high blood pressure.

DIAGNOSIS AND WHEN TO SEEK HELP

Diagnosing ocular migraines requires a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, often an eye care specialist or neurologist. Your doctor may review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and perform tests to rule out other conditions, such as retinal detachment or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). Imaging tests like MRIs or CT scans are typically not needed unless symptoms are atypical or persistent.

If you experience sudden vision changes, especially in one eye, it’s critical to seek care promptly. While ocular migraines are usually benign, similar symptoms can mimic more serious conditions. Contact your eye care provider if:

• Visual symptoms last longer than an hour.
• You experience frequent episodes or new symptoms.
• Vision loss is accompanied by numbness, weakness, or speech difficulties.

MANAGING OCULAR MIGRAINES

While ocular migraines often resolve on their own, managing triggers and adopting preventive strategies can reduce their frequency and severity. Here are practical tips to help:

• Identify Triggers: Keep a migraine diary to track potential triggers like foods, stress, or sleep patterns. Identifying triggers can significantly reduce migraine frequency.
• Lifestyle Changes: Prioritize regular sleep, stay hydrated, and practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga.
• Medication: For frequent or severe episodes, consult a doctor about preventive medications, such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers.
• Eye Care: Regular eye exams can ensure your vision health is monitored, especially if you experience recurrent visual disturbances.

VISION CARE IS HERE FOR YOU

Ocular migraines can be scary. But they don’t have to take control of your life. 

At Vision Care, we’re committed to helping you maintain healthy, comfortable vision every day.

Stay informed. Stay healthy. And always keep an eye on your vision.

SOURCES: 

• American Migraine Foundation: 

https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/retinal-migraine/

• Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain (2020): https://headachejournal.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/loi/15264610/year/2020headachejournal.onlinelibrary.wiley.com+1headachejournal.onlinelibrary.wiley.com+1

• Frontiers in Neurology (2021): https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neurology/articles?year=2021

• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/migraine

• Ophthalmology (2019): 

https://www.aaojournal.org/issue/S0161-6420%2819%29X0004-4aaojournal.org+5aaojournal.org+5aaojournal.org+5

• The Journal of Headache and Pain (2022): https://thejournalofheadacheandpain.biomedcentral.com/articles?year=2022

• American Academy of Neurology:  https://www.aan.com/Guidelines/home/GuidelineDetail/536

Did you know that your eyes can get sunburned just like your skin?

While most people are aware of the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays on the skin, far fewer realize that excessive exposure to UV radiation can also seriously damage the eyes. At Vision Care Optical Services, we believe prevention is better than cure. That’s why we want to keep you informed about how UV rays affect your eyes and how you can protect your vision for life.

WHAT ARE UV RAYS?

UV rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. There are three types:

• UVA (320–400 nm): Penetrates deeply and contributes to long-term eye damage.
• UVB (290–320 nm): More intense and primarily responsible for immediate eye injuries.
• UVC (100–290 nm): Mostly absorbed by the ozone layer, so less of a concern — for now.

While UVC rays don’t usually reach us, both UVA and UVB rays can pass through clouds and reflect off surfaces like water, sand, and snow — meaning your eyes are at risk even on overcast days.

IMPACT OF UV RAYS ON EYE HEALTH

UVA and UVB rays that reach the Earth’s surface can lead to several eye conditions:

• Cataracts: UV exposure is a major risk factor for the development of cataracts, which cause clouding of the eye’s lens and impaired vision.
• Macular Degeneration: UV light may accelerate age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by inducing oxidative stress in the retina, affecting central vision.
• Photokeratitis: Also known as “snow blindness,” this temporary but painful condition occurs from acute UV exposure, particularly in highly reflective environments like snow or water.
• Pterygium: A wing-shaped growth on the white of the eye that can extend onto the cornea and impair vision. This condition is often associated with chronic exposure to UV light and environmental irritants such as dust and wind. It is especially common among individuals who spend long hours outdoors without eye protection.

WHY UV PROTECTION MATTERS

UV exposure is cumulative — damage builds over time. Children are particularly vulnerable, as their eyes allow more UV light to penetrate. Moreover, up to 80% of UV radiation can pass through cloud cover, making eye protection necessary even on cloudy days. Consistent protection is important year-round, not just during summer or sunny weather.

EVIDENCE-BASED UV PROTECTION STRATEGIES

Here are proven, effective ways to protect your eyes:

• Wear UV-Blocking Sunglasses

Choose sunglasses labeled “100% UV protection” or “UV400,” which block both UVA and UVB rays. These reduce the risk of long-term ocular damage and offer essential everyday protection. Vision Care Opticals offers a wide range of UV-certified eyewear to suit your style and needs.

• Use Wide-Brimmed Hats

Pairing sunglasses with a wide-brimmed hat can reduce UV exposure to the eyes by up to 50%. This is especially helpful during outdoor activities such as hiking, gardening, or beach outings.

• Opt for Photochromic or UV-Protective Lenses

Prescription glasses with UV-protective coatings or photochromic lenses provide smart, adaptable protection that adjusts to lighting conditions. These options combine functionality with comfort and are ideal for daily wear.

• Limit Exposure During Peak Hours

UV radiation levels are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. When possible, plan outdoor activities outside these hours to reduce your exposure risk.

• Protect Children’s Eyes

Children’s eyes are more susceptible to UV damage due to larger pupils and clearer lenses. Ensure they wear UV-blocking sunglasses and hats during outdoor play, especially during peak hours.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT EYEWEAR AT VISION CARE OPTICALS

Finding the perfect pair of sunglasses or prescription lenses isn’t just about fashion — it’s about safeguarding your sight without compromising your look. At Vision Care Opticals, we blend protection and style seamlessly.

Whether you’re strolling under the sun or driving by the coast, our team is here to help you choose eyewear that not only complements your personality but also shields your eyes with certified UV protection. With options like polarized lenses that reduce glare and enhance visual comfort, you’re choosing clarity, safety, and confidence — all in one frame.

STAY SUN-SAFE, STAY SHARP

The sun lights up our days, but its UV rays can silently damage your eyes over time. The good news? Protecting your vision is simple. A good pair of UV-blocking sunglasses, protective lenses, and mindful habits — like avoiding peak sun hours — can make all the difference. And don’t forget the little ones; their eyes need protection too.

Think of your sunglasses as sunscreen for your eyes — a daily essential for lasting eye health. At Vision Care Opticals, we’ve handpicked a range of stylish, high-performance eyewear designed to keep your eyes safe while you enjoy the brightness of life. See better, live brighter.

REFERENCES

1. West, S. K. et al. (1998). Sunlight exposure and risk of lens opacities in a population-based study. JAMA, 280(8), 714-718.
2. Chalam, K. V. et al. (2011). Role of ultraviolet radiation in age-related macular degeneration. Eye & Contact Lens, 37(4), 225-232.
3. American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2020). Photokeratitis: Symptoms, causes, and treatment. https://www.aao.org
4. Sarkar, P. & Tripathy, K. (2023). Pterygium. StatPearls Publishing. htt ps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558907/
5. World Health Organization. (2006). Global Burden of Disease from Solar Ultraviolet Radiation. https://www.who.int
6. Environmental Protection Agency. (2020). UV radiation and your health. https://www.epa.gov
7. Skin Cancer Foundation. (2021). Sun protection for your eyes. https://www.skincancer.org

April, a month of new beginnings and celebrations in Sri Lanka, is also Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month in globally, a crucial time to focus on women’s unique vision needs. At Vision Care, we believe everyone deserves clear, healthy vision, and that’s why we’re dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of proactive eye care, especially for women. Many people don’t realize that women are at a higher risk of developing serious eye conditions, making regular eye check-ups and preventive care essential.

WHY WOMEN’S EYE HEALTH MATTERS

Research shows that two-thirds of blindness and visual impairment cases worldwide occur in women. Did you know that women are at a higher risk than men for several eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, glaucoma, and dry eye syndrome? This higher risk is linked to longer life expectancy, hormonal changes, and genetic predispositions. These conditions can significantly impact quality of life, making everyday activities like reading, driving, and even recognizing loved ones a struggle.

COMMON EYE CONDITIONS AFFECTING WOMEN

1. Dry Eye Syndrome – Women, particularly those undergoing menopause, are more prone to dry eye syndrome due to hormonal fluctuations. Symptoms include irritation, redness, and a gritty feeling in the eyes.
2. Cataracts – Women have a 25% higher risk of developing cataracts than men. This condition causes clouding of the eye lens, leading to blurry vision.
3. Glaucoma – A leading cause of blindness, glaucoma is more common in women due to hormonal changes affecting eye pressure.
4. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) – Studies show that women over 50 are at a greater risk of AMD, which gradually leads to central vision loss.

PROTECTING WOMEN’S EYE HEALTH

“Your eyes are the windows to your world and protecting them means protecting your future.”

Here are essential steps women can take to safeguard their vision:

✔ Get Regular Eye Exams – Early detection is key. Experts recommend an eye check-up every 1-2 years, especially for women over 40.

✔ Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet – Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, C, and E help maintain healthy eyes.

✔ Wear UV-Protective Sunglasses – Prolonged sun exposure increases the risk of cataracts and AMD. Choose sunglasses with 100% UV protection.

✔ Manage Chronic Conditions – Women with diabetes or hypertension should be extra cautious, as these conditions can lead to diabetic retinopathy and vision loss.

✔ Practice Safe Contact Lens Hygiene – Improper contact lens use can cause eye infections. Always follow hygiene guidelines to prevent complications.

EYE SAFETY FOR WOMEN IN THE WORKPLACE & DAILY LIFE

Women who work in healthcare, manufacturing, or laboratory environments should use protective eyewear to prevent injuries from hazardous chemicals, radiation, and flying debris. Wearing safety goggles or protective shields can significantly reduce the risk of eye trauma.

For those who spend extended hours on digital screens whether in an office, studying, or working remotely digital eye strain is a common issue. Symptoms include dry eyes, headaches, blurred vision, and neck pain. To combat this, women should:

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).
• Adjust screen brightness and contrast to reduce glare.
• Use blue-light filtering glasses to protect against excessive screen exposure.
• Blink frequently and use artificial tears if experiencing dryness.

Additionally, household chores like cooking and cleaning can expose women to irritants such as smoke, chemicals, and dust. Using protective eyewear or proper ventilation while handling cleaning agents can help prevent eye irritation and long-term damage.

TAKE ACTION TODAY!

Don’t wait until you’re experiencing problems to prioritize your eye health. At Vision Care Optical Services Pvt Ltd, we are committed to ensuring you receive the best eye care services. This April, book your comprehensive eye exam and take a proactive step toward better vision and long-term eye health.

“Your vision is priceless—protect it today, for a brighter tomorrow.“

REFERENCES

AAO, 2025. Women Face Higher Risk of Blindness Than Men. [Online]
Available at: https://www.aao.org/newsroom/news-releases/detail/women-face-higher-risk-of-blindness-than-men

AOA, 2025. Digital Eyestrain. [Online]
Available at: https://www.aoa.org/educate-your-community/digital-eyestrain?sso=y

CDC, 2025. Promoting Eye Health. [Online]
Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/hcp/clinical-guidance/promote-eye-health.html

Gorimanipalli , B., Khamar , P., Sethu , S. & Shetty , R., 2023. Hormones and dry eye disease. Indian journal of ophthalmology, 71(4), p. 1276–1284.

NEH, 2025. Eye Health Data and Statistics. [Online]
Available at: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-health-data-and-statistics

NICE, 2018. Age-related macular degeneration: diagnosis and management. In: Age-related macular degeneration: diagnosis and management. s.l.:s.n.

Swenor, B. et al., 2020. World Health Report on Vision: Aging Implications for Global Vision and Eye Health. Innovation in Aging, Volume 4, pp. 807-808.

Vajaranant, T. S., Nayak, S., Wilensky, J. T. & Joslin, C. E., 2010. Gender and glaucoma: what we know and what we need to know. Current opinion in ophthalmology, 21(2), p. 91–99.

Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. Often called the “silent thief of sight,” it develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making regular eye checkups essential. Millions of people worldwide are affected, making it one of the leading causes of blindness.

Early Detection is Key!

The good news? Glaucoma-related blindness is preventable but only with timely diagnosis and treatment. At Vision Care Optical Services Pvt Ltd, we offer cutting-edge eye screenings, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing patient education to help you stay ahead of this condition.

WHY IS GLAUCOMA SO DANGEROUS?

“The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.” – Helen Keller

The human eye is a marvel, but it’s also vulnerable. Glaucoma gradually damages the optic nerve, and by the time you notice vision changes, it may already be too late.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and recent global studies (2021–2024), millions of people worldwide are at risk of glaucoma-related vision loss. Age, genetics, ethnicity, and medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure increase the risk.

ARE YOU AT RISK FOR GLAUCOMA? KNOW THE WARNING SIGNS!

Glaucoma does not show favoritism it can affect anyone. However, some people are at much higher risk and need frequent eye checkups to prevent vision loss.

Are You in a High-Risk Group?

If you check any of the boxes below, it’s time for a comprehensive eye screening.

✅ Age Matters – Risk increases after 40, with those 60+ at the highest risk.
✅ Family History – If a parent or sibling has glaucoma, your risk jumps 4–9 times!
✅ Ethnicity & Genetics – African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians have a higher predisposition.
✅ High Eye Pressure (IOP) – The #1 modifiable risk factor for glaucoma.
✅ Medical Conditions – Diabetes, high blood pressure, and myopia (nearsightedness) are linked to glaucoma.
✅ Long-Term Steroid Use – Corticosteroid eye drops, inhalers, or pills may increase eye pressure over time.

DIAGNOSIS OF GLAUCOMA

“An eye exam today can save your vision tomorrow.”

Glaucoma can only be detected through specialized eye exams, which include:

1. Tonometry – Measures intraocular pressure (IOP).
2. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – Produces high-resolution images of the optic nerve.
3. Visual Field Testing (Perimetry) – Assesses peripheral vision loss.
4. Pachymetry – Measures corneal thickness, which influences IOP readings.
5. Gonioscopy – Examines the drainage angle to classify glaucoma type.

//// RESEARCH DATA////

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF GLAUCOMA

Glaucoma refers to a group of progressive optic neuropathies that damage the retinal ganglion cells and lead to permanent vision loss. The disease is primarily linked to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), which applies excessive force on the optic nerve, impairing its function.

There are several types of glaucoma, but the two most common forms are:

1. Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG)

• Most common type (75% of cases worldwide).
• The trabecular meshwork (drainage system) becomes inefficient, causing gradual IOP buildup.
• Often asymptomatic until late stages, leading to peripheral vision loss first before affecting central vision.

2. Angle-Closure Glaucoma (ACG)

• Less common but more severe can lead to sudden blindness if untreated.
• The iris blocks the drainage angle, preventing fluid outflow, causing a rapid spike in IOP.
• Symptoms include eye pain, nausea, headaches, and sudden vision loss a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.

Other forms include Normal-Tension Glaucoma (NTG), Congenital Glaucoma, and Secondary Glaucoma (caused by eye injuries, medications, or other conditions).

PREVALENCE OF GLAUCOMA (2021–2024 RESEARCH FINDINGS)

Recent epidemiological studies provide a clearer picture of glaucoma’s growing burden:

• 2022 Global Meta-Analysis (The Lancet) – Found that 76 million people worldwide had glaucoma, with numbers projected to increase to 111.8 million by 2040. (Ehrlich , et al., 2024)
• CDC Vision and Eye Health Surveillance System (2023) – Reported that 2 million Americans are living with glaucoma, with over 1.5 million experiencing significant vision loss. (CDC, 2023)
• 2024 Systematic Review (PubMed) – Showed an incidence rate of 23.46 per 10,000 person-years among individuals aged 40–79. (Shan , et al., 2024)

These findings highlight the pressing need for early detection and treatment.

TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR GLAUCOMA IN WORLDWIDE

Since glaucoma has no cure, treatment focuses on controlling IOP to slow disease progression.

1. Medications (Eye Drops & Oral Drugs)

• Prostaglandin analogs – Increase aqueous humor drainage.
• Beta-blockers – Reduce fluid production.
• Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors – Lower IOP.

2. Laser Therapy

• Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) – Enhances drainage for open-angle glaucoma.
• Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI) – Creates an opening in the iris to relieve angle-closure glaucoma.

3. Surgical Interventions

• Trabeculectomy – Creates a new drainage pathway.
• Glaucoma Drainage Implants – Helps fluid escape, reducing IOP.

YOUR VISION, OUR COMMITMENT

At Vision Care Optical Services Pvt Ltd, we provide comprehensive solutions to help detect, manage, and treat glaucoma ensuring a brighter, clearer future for all.

“Your vision is our priority because sight is life.”

REFERENCES

Association, W. G., 2025. Glaucoma Information. [Online]
Available at: https://www.glaucomapatients.org/basic/statistics/

CDC, 2023. CDC Vision and Eye Health Surveillance System. [Online]
Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/vision-health-data/prevalence-estimates/prevalence-estimates-glaucoma.html?

Ehrlich , J. R. et al., 2024. Prevalence of Glaucoma Among US Adults in 2022. JAMA ophthalmology, 142(11), pp. 1046-1053.

Shan , S. et al., 2024. Global incidence and risk factors for glaucoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies. Journal of global health.

Tham, Yih-Chung et al. “Global prevalence of glaucoma and projections of glaucoma burden through 2040: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” Ophthalmology vol. 121,11 (2014): 2081-90. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2014.05.013

February, the month of love, reminds us that love exists in many forms not just romantic love but also the unconditional love of parents, the support of friends, and the warmth of family. While we express love through words and gestures, have you ever considered how much our eyes play a role in experiencing and cherishing our loved ones?

Our eyes allow us to see the smiles of our children, the kindness in a friend’s gaze, and the comforting presence of our parents. However, many people neglect their eye health, unaware that conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can gradually impair vision, making it difficult to appreciate life’s most beautiful moments.

SIGNS THAT YOUR LOVED ONES MAY HAVE VISION PROBLEMS

Sometimes, those closest to us may be experiencing vision issues without realizing it. Here are some common symptoms to watch for:

👀 DIFFICULTY SEEING UP CLOSE (PRESBYOPIA & HYPEROPIA – FARSIGHTEDNESS)

• Struggling to read small print or having to squint
• Holding books, phones, or menus farther away than usual
• Experiencing eye strain or fatigue when reading or focusing on close objects
• Frequent headaches or neck pain after prolonged reading or screen time

👁️ DIFFICULTY SEEING FAR AWAY (MYOPIA – NEARSIGHTEDNESS)

• Squinting to see distant objects clearly
• Difficulty reading road signs, watching TV, or seeing objects at a distance
• Feeling eyestrain or discomfort when driving or participating in activities that require seeing things far away
• Frequent rubbing of eyes or closing one eye to see better

🌫️ BLURRY OR DISTORTED VISION (DIABETIC RETINOPATHY & AMD)

• Sudden blurry vision or trouble focusing on objects
• Wavy, blurred, or distorted vision, especially when reading or seeing faces
• Colors appearing dull or faded, making objects look washed out
• Blind spots or “floaters” (dark spots or strings that float in your vision)
• Difficulty adjusting to low light or night vision

🕶️ TUNNEL VISION OR GRADUAL VISION LOSS (GLAUCOMA)

• Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision, often unnoticed until it affects central vision
• Increased sensitivity to light, glare, or halos around lights
• Redness in the eyes or pain in the eye, particularly in the morning
• Difficulty seeing in low-light conditions
• Sudden vision loss, often accompanied by nausea or vomiting

SHOW YOUR LOVE THROUGH EYE CARE

This Valentine’s season, let’s show love in a unique way by taking care of our vision and encouraging our loved ones to do the same. Here’s how you can protect your eyesight and theirs:

❤️ Schedule Regular Eye Exams – Early detection can prevent vision loss.
💙 Follow a Healthy Diet – Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E support eye health.
💜 Limit Screen Time – Follow the 20-20-20 rule to reduce digital eye strain.
💛 Wear Protective Eyewear – Sunglasses and blue light filters shield eyes from harmful rays.

Instead of just exchanging chocolates or flowers this Valentine’s Day, give the gift of clear vision because the most beautiful love stories are seen through healthy eyes. 

This Valentine’s Day, let your love shine bright through the gift of clear vision because the most beautiful moments are the ones you can see, share, and cherish forever.