Optical Migraines
What Are Optical Migraines?
Optical migraines (also called acephalgic, ocular or visual migraines) are a type of migraine which has an associated aura symptom which affects the vision. Aura usually preceeds a migraine attack, however it is rarer than the classic migraine which is not accompanied by visual disturbances.
The visual symptoms experienced are often "zig-zag" flashing lights in the visual field and/or blind spots in the vision. Often nausea will accompany the aura and the migraine headache itself, with common symptoms including dizziness, vomiting, phonophobia and photophobia (sensitivities to sound and light). Optical migraines are more often experienced by women than men in an estimated ratio of 3:1.
What Causes Optical Migraine?
There is no common cause for optical migraines as yet, although many individuals have a variety of 'triggers' which can set off a migraine attack. For optical migraines these can commonly be flashing or flickering lights, or also the more noted food allergies. Other environmental factors have also been known to trigger migraines.
How Serious Is Optical Migraine?
Optical migraines are often thought of as a fairly common and 'safe' condition. The truth is, that migraines may even cause some amount of damage to the brain as blood is restricted during an attack. Scientific studies have proven that migraine sufferers have a much larger chance of suffering a stroke (approximately 6 times more likely than other people), and can also fall victim to chronic depression with 3 times more likelihood than others.
Aside from this, a bad headache is not always a migraine and visual symptoms may be caused by something much more serious such as a brain tumor, multiple sclerosis, partial seizures and small strokes in the brain. A qualified practitioner should always be consulted if there is any cause for concern over a headache or any visual symptoms.
What Are The Common Treatments For Optical Migraine?
Migraines are commonly treated with sedatives and aspirin. Triptans given via injection or nasal spray
Often with optical migraines it is most effective to take the required medications at the first sign of an impending attack. This helps provide maximum relief from migraine symptoms.
Supplementation can also be used to help reduce frequency of migraine attacks. Supplements such as magnesium and CO-enzyme Q10 are commonly used to avoid migraines.
One of the most important things for migraine sufferers to do is to record all migraine episodes and observe the details of each attack. This way you can be sure when something may be wrong and when it could be the right time to act quickly to acquire medical assistance.