What Is an Optical Migraine?

A migraine headache is an intensely painful headache caused by inflammation in the temporal artery. The nerves that surround the artery are stretched by the swelling, which causes them to emit chemicals that cause pain, irritation and further swelling of the artery. Optical migraines are a unique type of migraine that effects the vision.

Cause

• The swelling of blood vessels in the brain that results from chemicals released during the beginning of the migraine process affects the blood flow to several areas of the brain. When the blood flow to the visual cortex, or the occipital lobe, is affected, the individual can experience an optical migraine.

Symptoms

• The symptoms of an optical migraine may occur with, or without, a headache and may be similar to the aura experienced prior to a migraine headache. Bright spots, zig-zag lines and flashing lights are all potential symptoms of an optical migraine. Blind spots may also occur, and they may even close off the individual's entire field of vision.

Medical Treatments

• Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, also known as NSAIDs, are commonly used to treat minor migraine pain. NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can be effective, but cannot be used for long periods of time due to their side effects. Combinations of aspirin, caffeine and acetaminophen are sold as over-the-counter migraine medications, and they also can relieve moderate pain. Severe and chronic migraines, however, are often treated with triptans. Triptans are medications that shrink the blood vessels, which removes the cause for the migraine.

Alternative Treatments

• There are many alternative treatments for people who have optical migraines. In addition to medication, optical migraine sufferers can find relief by avoiding light and resting quietly. Acupuncture and physiotherapy have both been found to have use in the relief of optical migraines in some people. Feverfew is an herbal remedy that has also been used to treat optical migraines with some success.

Triggers

• Optical migraines can be set in motion by virtually anything, depending on the individual. Migraine sufferers can determine the triggers that apply to them by keeping a diary. This can help them understand what activities, foods or sleeping habits could have contributed to the onset of their symptoms. A common trigger for optical migraines is visual stimulation, such as flashing lights or computer screens.