Migraines are bad enough. The intense throbbing pain can be debilitating, causing you to stop everything to seek the solace of a quiet, dark, and cool place. However, migraines can quickly morph from bad to scary when it starts to affect your vision. The pain in your head combined with compromised vision can lead to even the most rational individual fearing they may have brain issues, but in fact it is an ocular migraine.
What is an Ocular Migraine?
An ocular migraine is any migraine that involves visual disturbances and vision issues. Ocular migraines can occur either accompanied by the pain of a traditional migraine or with the pain completely absent, depending on the circumstances.
What Occurs During an Ocular Migraine?
During an ocular migraine, you may see a variety of different colors and patterns, including an array of flashing lights, zigzagging lines, stars, and shimmering lights. In some individuals, they have described seeing psychedelic imagery and having vision blind spots as well. Ocular migraines are temporary, and the symptoms should clear up over time.
During an ocular migraine, it will be near impossible to perform any kind of tasks that require concentration and focus, such as reading, writing, driving, or working.
What Causes an Ocular Migraine?
While much research has been done to investigate the root cause of an ocular migraine, the exact reason is currently unknown. Scientists have confirmed that a personal or family history of migraines can be a factor in developing ocular migraines, leading some to conclude there is a genetic element to the migraines. While the exact cause of ocular migraines is unknown, scientists theorize that the cause of ocular migraines could be the same as the cause for normal migraines.
Possible Triggers for an Ocular Migraine
While the cause of an ocular migraine is not clear, the possible triggers of an ocular migraine are. Here are some of the most popular triggers:
- Strong scents
- Loud noises
- Bright lights
- Stress
- Drinking alcohol
- Drinking too much caffeine
- MSG
- Foods with tyramine
- Artificial sweeteners
- Nitrates
Try to understand what triggers hit you hardest. Try starting a diary that keeps track of your ocular headaches, as well as your eating and sleeping habits, to try to find patterns that can inform behavioral changes.
Migraine Treatment in San Diego at Synergy Research Centers
If you suffer from ocular migraines or other migraine headaches, Synergy Research Centers can help. We are dedicated to running migraine clinical research studies that offer free treatment for a variety of ailments, including ocular migraines. For more information, visit our Lemon Grove location, or give us a call at (888) 619-7272.