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OCULAR MIGRAINES: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

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/

 

 

  • Ophthalmology (2019): 

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