Optical, or ocular, migraines can affect your vision by causing blind spots, flashing spots, stars or other distortions. Also called migraines with aura, they can occur right before a painful headache or happen alone. Optical migraines can impact basic daily activities like driving, working and reading. What causes optical migraines? The short answer is a change in brain chemicals. The chemical changes are caused by the same triggers as other types of migraines. Avoiding these triggers can help you prevent future headaches.
Trigger Foods
Certain foods are known to bring on migraines; the more you eat them the worse the migraine gets. Avoid foods high in tyramine, including aged cheeses and chocolate, or foods with nitrates, like preserved meats. Avoid foods containing monosodium glutamate (MSG). Reduce the amount of citrus you eat and, most importantly, slowly reduce your caffeine intake. Many people think caffeine makes their optical migraines better, but any relief is only temporary and stronger rebound migraines are possible. The rebound migraine, or headache that comes shortly after a first migraine, is often much worse.
The Essential "S's"
Stress and poor sleep patterns are two more migraine triggers. Under stress the brain releases chemicals that cause headaches. Minimize optical migraines by reducing your stress levels with meditation, biofeedback and stress management. Too little sleep or disrupted sleep can bring on migraines. Develop a regular sleep routine.
Enviro-triggers
Bright lights, strong scents and chemicals in the environment also can cause migraines. Avoid powerful scents and odors, use natural cleaning products and wear sunglasses in bright light.
Hormones
If you believe hormones are bringing on your migraines, reduce as many of your other triggers as possible when your hormones are out of whack. For some women, paying special attention to their diets in the days before their menstrual cycle keeps migraines away.
Medications and Herbals
Birth control medications can increase your migraines. Steer clear of any medications containing caffeine. Certain herbal remedies also can trigger migraine headaches. Tell your doctor or herbalist about your migraines.
