Ocular migraine is a type of migraine that causes vision disturbances for a short period. It is a very rare condition and can lead to blindness, blind spots, flashing lights, zigzagging lines, etc. It can occur along with a migraine or before a migraine. An ocular migraine can stop you from performing activities such as reading, writing, etc. It is not a serious condition and the signs also last for a short time.
Common Signs of Ocular Migraine
The sign of ocular migraine varies from one person to another based on the severity and the type of ocular migraine you have. However, the following are the common signs:
- Temporary light flashes, zigzag lines, etc.
- Becomes sensitive to sound and light
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Numbness on one side of the body
- Intense and throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head
- Pain becomes worse with movements
Though the signs seem to be scary, they last for only a short period of time. If you ever experience any of the above-mentioned signs, consider visiting a doctor to stop the condition from progressing.
Types of Ocular Migraine
Ocular migraine is broadly classified into two types namely:
- Retinal migraine: This type of ocular migraine causes visual loss or blindness. The visual signs occur only in one eye during or before a migraine attack. Retinal migraine can lead to irreversible vision loss. Hence, you should visit a doctor for a diagnosis.
- Migraine with aura: It causes visual impairments such as blind spots, light flashes, etc. The aura lasts for only a short time and it is not serious. A migraine with aura affects both eyes and can also occur without a migraine headache.
Causes of Ocular Migraine
The exact reason for ocular migraine is unknown. However, it is believed to be due to the narrowing of the arteries. This can cause poor blood flow to the eyes for a short time and it causes the signs of ocular migraine. It is also believed that a family history of ocular migraine can also be a cause.
Like any other migraine headaches, ocular migraine also has triggers such as:
- Stress
- Smoking
- Use of birth control pills
- Bright lights
- Strong smells
- Weather changes
- Anxiety
- Excess consumption of caffeine
- Excess heat
- Dehydration
- High blood pressure
How is Ocular Migraine Diagnosed?
When you visit a doctor for an ocular migraine diagnosis, he will ask you about your signs, and medical history, and will examine your eyes. There is no particular test to diagnose ocular migraine. The doctor also conducts other tests to rule out other causes of vision loss.
To diagnose you with ocular migraine, you should have consistent visual signs along with migraine.
Treatment for Ocular Migraine
In most cases, ocular migraine goes away without any treatment. You should try to take rest and avoid triggers such as bright lights, smoking, etc till your vision disturbances disappear. The treatment for ocular migraine focuses on reducing the signs and preventing them from progressing. The doctor may prescribe medications to cope with the pain.
However, the following lifestyle changes can reduce the severity and frequent occurrence of a migraine:
- Resting your eyes
- Reducing the screen time
- Managing stress with yoga, exercises, etc.
- Avoiding smoking
- Staying hydrated
- Having enough sleep
- Reducing alcohol and caffeine consumption
- Treating anxiety
Have Vision Problems? Visit Think Eye Hospital Today
If you or your loved one is experiencing any signs of ocular migraine, consider visiting Think Eye Hospital today. It is been established by two senior ophthalmologists who have operated more than 35,000 cases in Hyderabad. We can treat any kind of vision problem and you can count on them to treat your condition. We have thousands of happy and satisfied patients with their treatment. To know more about the doctors, you can give us a call or can fill out the online form.
