ocular migraines

[eye395]

I have ocular migraines. They come in threes. I can have one and the next one could be a day or so later, and the next headache, the next day or day after. I could also have two in one day. They come sometimes every month, then could go away for a few months. I do get a mild headache after. I'd appreciate hearing from anyone about their experiences. I do not know anyone, personally, who has this problem. I've had it for several years. My eye doctor says it isn't anything, doesn't know what causes it, but it is troublesome and I'd like to know more about it. Thank you all very much for any help.

[Godofredo MD]

Hi.

Ocular migraines are generally reported to be harmless and cause little to no pain at all. The visual symptoms such as scotoma, scintillations, or metamorphopsia are not permanent and no brain damage ensues, thus it rarely necessitates treatment.

However, it is correct that you consulted an ophthalmologist about this to first rule out any eye condition which could present with similar symptoms and that would require immediate treatment.

The reason why your ophthalmologist may not give you much information about this condition is because the conditions that trigger this disorder have still not been determined and because the symptoms are not directly related to the eyes but to the brain's visual cortex.

Although regarded as harmless, you should still exercise caution when experiencing an episode. Stop whatever your doing and get some rest. If you are driving or operating heavy machinery, you should stop doing so until symptoms have fully subsided.

You should have your condition regularly checked, especially when the symptoms worsen or persist for a longer than usual duration.

Hope this helps.

[eye395]

Thank you so much. I sincerely appreciate your coments. My ocular migraines (in three's) are becoming more frequent. (I also have sleep apnea.) Do you think I should go to a neurologist? Thank you very much again.

[Godofredo MD]

Hi.

Although, as I have mentioned above, ocular migraines are generally harmless, it also wouldn't hurt to be evaluated by a neurologist to rule out any other conditions that might possibly cause your symptoms.

There is no definite cause identified for ocular migraines. However, some people who have this condition do report triggers to their symptoms, such as certain foods, tension, fatigue, etc. What you could also do is to determine whether there are certain triggers to your episodes and, if identified, try to avoid them as best as you can.

Hope this helps.

[eye395]

Hi, Thank you again. I'm sure you have already seen or heard about CNN this morning. They talked about energy efficient bulbs being able to trigger migraines so I'm thinking this also means eye migraines. I certainly know bright light from bulbs, flashbulbs, sun glaring on cars or strobe lights can do it for me. I can control my home environment, but will it be helplful to wear sunglasses in stores, bright resturants, etc? Will this type of glass help?
     By the way, I have never, ever used the internet for forums, etc. I just can't believe this wonderful service that is provided here.What a blessing for people.  

[Godofredo MD]

Hi.

Sunglasses can probably help in decreasing the chances that you will experience the migraines. However, for those that flicker such as the energy efficient light bulbs and strobe lights, this may be of very little help as the flickering can still be noticed despite wearing sunglasses.

I am glad that you found the forums very helpful. We do try to provide you with the best advice and information that we are able to give. Thank you for sharing your concerns with the people in the forum.

[ocm4751]

I just read your emails regarding ocular migraines.  I have the exact problems you stated.  Mine come in 3's, generally one a day sometimes 2, then go away for a few months.  I've had them for years and they are very annoying.  I also get a slight headache afterwards.  I generally take two Tylenols or Ibprofens and wait approx. 20 mins and they disappear.  I do know that light triggers my OM's.  I never get a severe headache only a slight one.  My sister also get's them and I have a friend that get's them once and a while.  I spoke to my Eye Doctor and he said, if they start to come more frequent I should see a neurologist.  I just got through having my series of OM's....now you know someone else that gets them...

[eye395]

Hi. Thank you for answering. My eye doctor has never heard of anyone getting them in 3's.so I'm so greatful to hear from you.I was starting to think I had something very strange.
  I don't take anything for them but they do disapear in approx 20 mins anyway. Yes, light triggers my OM's, too, and that can be as simple as a bright reflection from the sun on a car window. Are you aware of anything else that triggers them? I can't. If your sister gets them, too, I wonder if they are passed on in the family. Did any doctor tell you that?