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Posted by: Eye Center of St Augustine in Eye

Ocular migraines, a rare occurrence, can lead to temporary vision loss or even temporary blindness in one eye. This condition arises when blood vessels in the retina or behind the eye undergo reduced blood flow or spasms. The vision in the affected eye typically returns to normal within an hour following an ocular migraine.

What Are The Symptoms?

If you experience shimmering or flashing lights, zigzagging lines, stars, or black spots in your vision, you may be having an ocular migraine. This can make performing tasks such as reading, writing, or driving difficult. Ocular migraines can occur with or without the pain of a migraine headache. Typically, a blind spot in the central area of your vision will appear small and then gradually expand. This usually lasts for less than an hour, around 60 minutes.

Causes & Risk Factors

Ocular migraines are typically caused by reduced blood flow or spasms of blood vessels in the retina or behind the eye. Risk factors include:

• Ocular migraines are believed to be the exact causes of migraine headaches.
• It is more common in women than men.
• The most common age group is 30-39.
• Family history of migraine.

Treatment and Prevention

• Same as the prevention of migraines.
• Avoid migraine triggers.
• Common triggers include stress, hormonal changes, bright/flashing lights, drinking alcohol (red wine), changes in the weather, skipping meals/not eating enough, or too much or too little sleep.
• Keep a headache journal, including information about what you were doing, eating, or taking medications before or after a headache.
• If you perform tasks that require clear vision when an ocular migraine or visual migraine occurs, stop what you are doing and relax until your vision returns to normal.
• If you’re driving, park on the side of the road and wait for the visual disturbances to pass completely.
• Your doctor can advise you on the latest migraine medications, including medicines designed to prevent future attacks.

If your ocular migraines or migraine auras (visual migraines) appear to be stress-related, you might be able to reduce the frequency of your migraine attacks without medicine by simply:

• Eating healthy meals regularly
• Avoiding common migraine triggers
• Getting plenty of sleep
• Trying stress-busters such as yoga and massage

Don’t Delay Or Deny Your Eye Health

Any visual loss is a serious matter. Call TODAY to schedule an appointment if you experience problems affecting your eyesight. Remember, seeking professional advice is crucial for your eye health.

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References: American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Migraine Foundation. This blog provides information and discussion about eye health and related subjects. The content provided in this blog and any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, they should consult with an appropriately licensed physician.