
What are ophthalmic migraines?
25 January 2024
Ophthalmic migraines, also known as visual migraines or migraines with aura, are a type of migraine characterized by the presence of visual symptoms before or during the headache episode. These migraines affect a significant portion of the population and can have a significant impact on the quality of life of those who experience them.
Symptoms
Ophthalmic migraines usually begin with what is known as an "aura." It consists of a set of visual symptoms that develop gradually and can last between 5 and 20 minutes. Some of the common symptoms include:
- Flashes of light: People who experience ophthalmic migraines often describe seeing intermittent flashes of light, which may look like flashes or flickering lines.
- Visual scotomas: Also known as blind spots, these are temporary areas of vision loss that can affect peripheral vision.
- Alterations in color perception: some people experience changes in color perception during the aura, seeing bright or distorted colors.
After the aura phase, many people experience a throbbing headache that may be accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light and sound.
Causes and triggers
Although the exact causes of ophthalmic migraines are not fully understood, genetic and environmental factors are thought to play an important role. Some common triggers include:
- Hormonal changes: Many women experience ophthalmic migraines related to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle.
- Stress: Emotional or physical stress can trigger migraine episodes in some people.
- Visual stimuli: Bright lights, intense visual patterns, or computer screens can trigger ophthalmic migraines in some people.
- Changes in sleeping patterns or diet: Alterations in sleeping habits or certain foods can trigger migraines in some sensitive people.
Diagnosis and treatment
Treatment of ophthalmic migraines may involve preventive measures and medications to relieve symptoms. Medications may include pain relievers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and, in some cases, specific migraine medications. However, it is crucial to consult with a health professional, in this case, an ophthalmologist specializing in neuro-ophthalmology, for timely treatment.