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What to Take for an Eye Migraine

An eye migraine, also called an opthalmic migraine, is normally painless and without headache, despite the word migraine. Visual disturbances accompany an eye migraine and typically affect both eyes. The eye migraine may be painless, but vision problems may prove difficult especially when driving or working. Treatment is available to reduce symptoms.

  1. Symptoms

    • Symptoms of eye migraines include a blind spot in your central vision with flickering lights or zig-zag lines within the blind spot. The blind spot will continue to grow and cause vision difficulty. The visual disturbances may last a few minutes to 25 to 30 minutes. Some people may experience a headache after the blind spot has diminished.

    Causes

    • Eye migraines are caused by neurological factors in the brain. When these factors occur, the blood vessels behind the eyes cramp or spasm, resulting in a blind spot. These factors include hormonal changes, flashing lights and reactions to certain foods and medications. You may want to keep a diary of what was eaten or happening right before the attacks occurred. This helps you to avoid such triggers in the future.

    Treatment

    • Eye migraines normally do not need to be seen by an eye doctor, but if you are experiencing unusual vision symptoms that do not ease within an hour, consult your eye professional because symptoms may be caused by a detached retina or other eye condition.
      Eye migraines normally need no treatment, but if you suffer from constant attacks, medications for migraines may be prescribed. The eyes are not the reason for symptoms of opthalmic migraines, activity in the back of the brain is the primary cause. Medication to suppress the activity will be given to reduce frequency and intensity of the attacks.

    Considerations

    • Eye migraines can come on suddenly so when driving pull over till the visual disturbances pass. It is best to stay still, either sit or lie down until symptoms resolve. The first time you experience an eye migraine, consult with your eye doctor to make certain it is not a different medical condition. Your doctor will be able to provide you with the right medication if you experience frequent or severe vision loss.

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