Ophthalmic migraine: causes, symptoms and treatment

What is an ocular migraine?

An ocular migraine, also known as ophthalmic migraine, is a type of migraine that affects vision and is often accompanied by headaches. This neurological condition can cause visual disturbances such as flashing lights, zigzag patterns, or temporary loss of vision in one eye. While these symptoms can be alarming, ocular migraines typically do not result in permanent eye damage.

Causes of ocular migraines

The exact cause of ocular migraines is not fully understood, but it may be related to the sudden narrowing of blood vessels in the eye, which temporarily reduces blood flow to the area. Several triggers can lead to ocular migraines, including:

• Stress or changes in lifestyle
• Sleep deprivation
• Smoking
• High blood pressure
• Hormonal changes (such as those caused by birth control pills or pregnancy)
• Physical exertion
• Posture (working bent forward may increase the risk)
• High altitude
• Dehydration
• Low blood sugar
• Excessive heat

Symptoms of an ocular migraine

The symptoms of an ocular migraine are usually visual and can appear before or alongside a headache. Common symptoms include:

• Visual aura: Flashing lights, zigzag lines, or blind spots in your vision.
• Temporary vision loss: Some individuals may experience partial or complete vision loss in one eye for a short time.
• Headaches: Throbbing pain on one side of the head following visual disturbances.
• Nausea and vomiting: These can accompany the migraine in some cases.

These visual symptoms usually last between 10 to 30 minutes and are often followed by a headache that can persist for several hours.

How to diagnose an ocular migraine

Diagnosing an ocular migraine typically involves a clinical exam and a neurological assessment. If your doctor suspects an underlying condition, additional tests such as a brain scan (CT or MRI) may be required to rule out other causes.

How to relieve an ocular migraine

If you suffer from ocular migraines, there are several ways to alleviate symptoms and prevent future episodes. Here are some tips:

• Visual rest: At the first sign of visual disturbance, take a break from screens and rest your eyes in a dark, quiet environment.
• Wear suitable glasses: Wearing appropriate eyeglasses can help reduce eye strain and prevent migraines.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps prevent dehydration, a common migraine trigger.
• Avoid triggers: Identify and avoid factors that trigger your migraines (bright lights, stress, certain foods).
• Temple massage: Lightly massaging the temples can help relieve the pressure of migraines.

Treatment options for ocular migraines

Although ocular migraines often resolve on their own, several treatment options are available to reduce the frequency and intensity of episodes:

• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help alleviate migraine pain.
• Preventive treatments: For those who experience frequent migraines, a doctor may prescribe medication to prevent attacks.
• Blue light filtering glasses: Special glasses with blue light filters or tinted lenses can help reduce exposure to bright light, preventing migraines in individuals sensitive to light.
• Consultation with a specialist: If ocular migraines are frequent or severe, it’s important to see a neurologist or ophthalmologist for a personalized treatment plan.

Take care of your eyes and prevent ocular migraines

Though ocular migraines can be disruptive, you can minimize their impact by taking care of your eyes and identifying triggers. Wearing appropriate glasses, managing stress, and adopting healthy visual habits can make a significant difference. If you regularly experience these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment.