Migraines can be painful and distracting, and they negatively impact your daily routine. Understanding the cause of this disturbance can help you avoid triggers and properly treat the issue with the help of an eye doctor. If your headache also includes a visual disturbance, here’s what you need to know about ocular migraines.

Understanding Ocular Migraines

What Is an Ocular Migraine?

An ocular migraine is a headache that also includes a visual impairment or disturbance. While the effects are temporary, some patients who experience this type of migraine endure temporary vision loss or see stars and zigzag lines until the symptoms subside. While the primary reason for ocular migraines is still debated by eye doctors, many believe it’s linked to spasms within blood vessels in the retina. 

What Triggers This Type of Migraine?

Most vision care patients that suffer from these headaches find they are due to bright lights, anxiety, stress, loud noises, or weather changes. Food and drinks can also spur this problem, particularly if you consume red wine, excessive caffeine, nitrate-rich foods, or artificial sweeteners. 

How Can Your Eye Doctor Help?

Experiencing an ocular migraine and temporary vision problems can be alarming. To put your mind at ease and better understand your triggers, schedule an appointment at a trusted eye care center. An eye doctor can evaluate your vision, discuss your symptoms, and create a plan to reduce your odds of getting ocular migraines moving forward.

Dr. L R Gabe, based in the heart of Show Low, AZ, is the region’s leading eye doctor. If you’re looking for a trusted eye care center that believes in providing each patient with individualized service, call their office today at (928) 537-5565 to schedule an appointment. For more information on how this optometrist applies 40 years of experience to vision care, visit their website.