What is an Ocular Migraine?

Ocular migraines are a type of migraine that primarily affects your vision. These migraines can cause temporary vision loss or blindness in one eye, usually lasting less than an hour. Understanding the causes and symptoms of ocular migraines can help you take proactive measures to maintain your optimal vision and eye health. 

Common Eye Conditions that Cause Migraines

While ocular migraines are not common, there are other common eye conditions that can cause migraines. For example, glaucoma, a condition characterized by increased pressure in the eye, can cause headaches and migraines. Similarly, dry eyes, a condition where your eyes do not produce enough tears, can lead to discomfort and headaches.

Another common eye condition linked to migraines is astigmatism. Astigmatism is a refractive error where the eye does not focus light evenly onto the retina, causing blurred vision. This can strain your eyes, leading to headaches and potentially migraines.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a condition that affects central vision, can also cause headaches. This is because, as your central vision deteriorates, you may squint or strain your eyes to see clearly, which can result in headaches and migraines.

You might be surprised to learn that your outdated prescription glasses or contact lenses can also contribute to ocular migraines. If your prescription is not up-to-date, you will strain your eyes to see clearly. This constant strain can lead to headaches and migraines, as well as other visual disturbances.

Recognizing the Symptoms of an Ocular Migraine

Recognizing the symptoms of an ocular migraine is key to seeking appropriate treatment. The primary symptom is temporary vision loss or blindness in one eye. This is typically accompanied by a headache, which can be mild or severe, and can last from a few hours to several days.

Other symptoms include seeing flashing lights or zigzagging lines, having blind spots in your field of vision, or experiencing a scintillating scotoma, a phenomenon where you see shimmering or wavy lines. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention immediately.

Treatment Options for Ocular Migraines

There are several treatment options available for ocular migraines. If your ocular migraines are linked to an underlying eye condition, treating that condition can also help manage your migraines. For example, if your migraines are caused by glaucoma, treating the glaucoma can potentially reduce the frequency and severity of your migraines.

Regular eye exams are crucial in maintaining your vision and eye health, and they can also play a key role in preventing and treating ocular migraines. During an eye exam, your optometrist can identify any potential eye conditions that may be causing your migraines, and can help ensure your prescription is up-to-date.

Additionally, regular eye exams can detect eye conditions in their early stages, when they are most treatable. This can help prevent further vision loss and potentially reduce the occurrence of ocular migraines.

Conclusion

Maintain your vision and eye health by scheduling regular eye exams, eating a healthy diet, protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays, and avoiding eye strain. By taking these steps, you can help prevent ocular migraines and ensure your eyes stay healthy for years to come.

For more information on ocular migraines, visit Quality Eye Care at our office in Jacksonville or Gainesville, Florida. Call (904) 601-1300 to schedule an appointment today.