Optical migraines are migraines accompanied by visual distortions. Optical migraines are also called ocular or visual migraines, or migraines with auras. The headache phase of the migraine may or may not be present. If the headache is absent, the migraine is often referred to as a silent migraine. The common theme is the presence of visual distortions that can be slightly blurred vision, severe blindness or auras with zigzag lines through your peripheral or central vision. The causes of migraines are undefined; however, there are some reports of optical migraine causes. Consultation with a physician is required to ensure that a more severe medical diagnosis is not needed.
Vasospasm
Dr. Steven Ofner, a well-known ophthalmologist, describes vasospasms as a temporary spasm in blood vessels similar to those experienced in leg muscles during a charley horse. In optical migraines, the vasospasm typically occurs in the optic nerve or the visual cortex of the brain, which produces the visual distortions common in optical migraines.
Bright Lights
MayoClinic.com suggests that sensory stimuli may instigate migraines. Specifically, bright flashing lights and sun glare are typical triggers of optical migraines. These common visual stimuli are more likely to add eyestrain that requires more efficient blood circulation to prevent blood vessel dilation.
Food Allergens
Many people suffer from food allergies that produce migraines of all forms according to MayoClinic.com. Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, is a common additive in Asian foods and a typical migraine trigger. Other typical allergens include alcohol, sugar, aspartame or aged cheeses. Caffeine over indulgence is also a possible migraine trigger. Some migraine pain relievers contain caffeine as a neuronal stimulant to aid in pain relief; however, if caffeine dietary consumption is already high, the excess caffeine may trigger a more intense headache, termed rebound migraine.
