What Are the Treatments for Occular Migraine?

An ocular migraine is a painless condition that causes flashing lights, dizziness and vertigo. Often there is no need to treat ocular migraines, but if they interfere with your day-to-day activities, there are methods available.

Function

• Treatment for ocular migraines usually is done in three parts: reducing immediate symptoms when they occur, preventing recurrences and eliminating the overall cause of the migraines as much as possible.

Identification

• Over-the-counter and prescription medications alleviate symptoms of ocular migraines, while cardiovascular, antiepileptic and antidepressant medications may be used to prevent subsequent attacks. Therapy to reduce your stress level is also beneficial in eliminating migraines, reports the Mayo Clinic.

Types of Medications

• Medications used to alleviate the symptoms of ocular migraines include ibuprofen, naproxen, acetaminophen, sumatriptan, almotriptan and ergotamine. Drugs used to prevent migraines include propranolol, amitriptyline, divalproex sodium, topiramate and gabapentin.

Time Frame

• Pain relievers used to alleviate the symptoms of ocular migraines are meant for short term use only. The Mayo Clinic advises that even over-the-counter treatments be limited to 10 uses per month. Drugs meant for prevention of migraines are appropriate for long-term use.

Risks

• Short-term prescription remedies like sumatriptan have the potential to cause nausea, dizziness and drowsiness and pose a risk of heart attacks. Possible side effects of the long-term medications include weight gain, low blood pressure, drowsiness, dry mouth and heart palpitations.

Features of Therapy

• The therapeutic treatment that is most beneficial in the treatment of ocular migraines is cognitive behavior therapy, which teaches how to change the way you think and behave in certain situations that cause you stress.