Understanding Ocular Migraine Issues

Eyes are extremely important and most people will seek out assistance immediately if they notice any disturbances in the way they see. While it is often best to take quick action where your vision is concerned, this is not always necessary. This is true if you notice an ocular migraine coming on. Keep reading to learn about the issue and to find out what you should do if the issue gets worse. 

What Is An Ocular Migraine?

Ocular migraines occur with or without headaches. They most commonly accompany headaches, but they can happen on their own. You will notice some specific visual disturbances when the migraine starts, and most symptoms will occur to only one eye. The effect of only a single eye and also the relatively short duration of the phenomenon are what makes the problem easy to identify.

When the migraine begins, you may lose vision completely in one eye or notice blind spots in your visual field. Also, you may note wavy vision as well as bright lights, floaters, and dark spots in your sight. These things can make it extremely difficult or impossible to read, drive, or use the computer without difficulty. 

A typical ocular migraine is likely to last only about 30 to 60 minutes and the issue is usually caused by the spasming of blood vessels across the retina. Changes in the nerve cells during the migraine can contribute to the problem as well.

How Can The Issue Be Treated?

If you notice an ocular migraine coming on or start to see some of the symptoms, then it is best to stop what you are doing. If you are driving, then pull over on the side of the road or find a safe space to park. Since the migraine will subside fairly quickly, it is wise to simply rest your eyes. Sit or lie comfortably and close your eyes. Open them every five minutes or so to see if the migraine has passed.

If you experience frequent ocular migraine issues, then your eye doctor can provide you with medications that can help. For example, certain blood pressure medicines, antidepressants, and anti-seizure medicines can offer some assistance.

Medications are typically not necessary, but you should make arrangements for regular eye examinations. This will allow your eye doctor to examine your retina to make sure there are no detachment or tissue damage issues. While it is extremely rare, ocular migraines can lead to more serious vision problems.


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