1. Ocular Migraine Symptoms and Blood Flow
Unlike the more common migraine headache, ocular migraines, also known as ophthalmic migraines, occur in a small percentage of people. Experts believe that a change in the blood flow to the brain, particularly in the part of the brain that controls vision, cause ocular migraine symptoms. Ocular migraines usually don't require treatment because they are harmless, albeit disturbing. However, you should always see your doctor for a proper diagnosis if you experience any ocular migraine symptoms to rule out other possible causes.
2. The Bizarre, the Blinding Spot and the Blurry
Most people with ocular migraine symptoms develop a blind spot, also known as scotoma, which starts out small but grows larger and is located in the center of their field of vision. Twinkling lights known as scintillations or a zigzag line that glimmers with light appear inside of the blind spot. Photophobia, which is an aversion to light, is another common symptom. Photopsias, a term used to describe colored sparks of light, may also occur. Some people experience tunnel vision or blurry vision. Although ocular migraine symptoms are disturbing, they typically resolve within 20 to 30 minutes.
3. The Harbinger of a Migraine Headache
Some individuals who have classic migraines develop ocular migraine symptoms, warning them that a headache is imminent. The visual disturbances, which some people say occur in conjunction with an aura, occur anywhere from minutes to days prior to the onset of other migraine symptoms such as a throbbing headache and vomiting. An ocular migraine may subside once the headache begins or it may continue for a part of, or for the entire, migraine headache.
4. Ocular Migraine Without Headache
Ocular migraines are possible without a headache or other migraine symptoms. An ocular migraine will take its course with the exact same symptoms every time and usually go away within minutes. Because ocular migraines alone rarely produce pain, some people may feel fortunate that they do not have to contend with a debilitating headache or vomiting that can last for hours or days.
5. Don't Do Anything Dangerous
Once a person sees her doctor and understands why she is "hallucinating," her anxiety decreases. Experts believe that stress, as well as medications, alcohol and some foods, may trigger ocular migraines. Finding your triggers and avoiding them is probably the best you can do for yourself to prevent the episodes. In the meantime, ocular migraine symptoms temporarily make seeing a challenge. Pull your car over if you are driving when one hits. Stop doing anything dangerous until your vision clears. If your symptoms last longer than 30 minutes or you have concerns, contact your doctor.
