Have you ever experienced flashes of light or shimmering, zigzagging patterns in one eye without any headaches? If so, these could be due to a condition called ophthalmic migraine, also known as a retinal migraine. Interestingly, ophthalmic migraine is a type of migraine that causes temporary visual symptoms. However, there is more to understand about the condition than just unusual patterns and flashing lights. In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Prabhakar G V, Consultant—Cataract, Cornea, Lasik, Sankara Eye Hospital, Hyderabad, discusses ophthalmic migraine in detail and helps distinguish it from a regular migraine.
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What Is Ophthalmic Migraine?
Dr Prabhakar describes ophthalmic migraine or retinal migraine as transient vision abnormalities that occur with or without headaches. He says that the condition leads to symptoms such as blind spots, lights that flash before the eyes, or transient vision loss in one eye, often for a few minutes to an hour.
The migraines result from impaired circulation or blood vessel spasms within the retina or visual cortex of the brain.
According to StatPearls Publishing, the prevalence of retinal migraines is unknown, but migraines overall affect 18.2% of females and 6.5% of males, with higher rates in whites, followed by blacks and Asians.
Difference Between Ophthalmic Migraine And A Regular Migraine
Ophthalmic migraines are a type of migraine but are different from routine migraines, mainly due to their effects on vision.
“Ophthalmic migraines induce temporary visual disturbances in one eye, such as blind spots, flashing lights, or loss of part of the field of vision, which lasts about an hour. They may or may not be preceded by a headache. In comparison, routine migraines tend to feature severe, pounding headaches, nausea, light and sound sensitivity, and, in some cases, vision disturbances,” explains Dr Prabhakar.
Ophthalmic migraines typically result from retinal blood vessel spasms, while routine migraines correlate with vascular and neurological brain changes.
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How To Identify Ophthalmic Migraine?
While zigzag patterns in vision are one of the classic signs of ophthalmic migraines, they aren’t the only symptom. If frequent zigzag lines persist for more than an hour, or if they are combined with other symptoms such as loss of vision, dizziness, and weakness, one should immediately consult a doctor to rule out the possibility of any underlying conditions.
Zigzag patterns are sometimes the result of changes in blood supply to the eye or brain.
Though they are one of the more common symptoms of migraines, they can also occur due to eye strain, retinal conditions, or even neurological disorders such as Transient Ischaemic Attacks (TIAs).
Common Triggers Of Ophthalmic Migraine
There are some triggers that can cause ophthalmic migraines, which may differ from individual to individual. Usual triggers are:
- Stress
- Tiredness
- Dehydration
- Endocrine shifts, like menstruation or pregnancy.
“Sudden flashing or bright lights, long periods of time in front of a computer or TV, and exposure to potent visual stimulation may also lead to migraine attacks,” adds Dr Prabhakar.
Additionally, food items, such as caffeine, alcohol, processed food, artificial sweeteners, and foods rich in MSG, have been known to start migraines in some patients. Moreover, changes in the environment, for example, drastic temperature fluctuations, high elevations, or offensive odours, can also play a part.
It is important to also take your rests and meals seriously and avoid doing rigorous exercises, as they too can contribute to the chances of an ophthalmic migraine.
Takeaway
Ophthalmic migraine is generally harmless and often resolves on its own. However, individuals should seek medical attention if their symptoms last longer than an hour, occur frequently, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as severe headache, dizziness, weakness, confusion, or loss of vision. Do not overlook persistent symptoms, as they may also indicate a more serious condition, such as a stroke or retinal problem.