Visual migraines are temporary vision problems caused by constricted blood vessels. They usually affect one eye and last less than 30 minutes. While usually harmless, frequent or severe episodes should be discussed with a doctor. Symptoms can be caused by various factors, including medication reactions. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. A visual migraine affecting both eyes may be a symptom of a more conventional migraine with aura, which requires immediate medical attention.
A visual migraine is a common cause of temporary vision problems that may or may not be accompanied by headaches. An episode occurs when the tiny blood vessels that feed the retina narrow, reducing blood flow to the eye. In most cases, a visual migraine affects only one eye and lasts less than 30 minutes. Visual migraines are usually harmless to a person’s overall health, although an individual who experiences frequent or severe episodes should see a doctor to rule out more serious underlying problems and discuss ways to manage the condition.
Constricted blood vessels can be caused by a number of different factors. Most episodes are related to seemingly innocuous causes, such as getting up too quickly or engaging in moderate exercise. Hormonal imbalances, viral infections, and blood disorders like sickle cell disease can also cause visual migraines. Some people also experience symptoms triggered by adverse reactions to prescription or over-the-counter medications.
The first sign of a visual migraine is a gradually enlarging blind spot in the center of vision. Many people see shiny dots or flashes of light in their peripheral vision. Distorted images can cause dizziness, nausea, or lightheadedness. A visual migraine typically lasts less than five minutes, and the problems rarely persist for more than half an hour. Vision returns quickly, although symptoms of nausea or a mild headache may persist.
It is important for a person experiencing a visual migraine to visit an emergency room or make an appointment with an ophthalmologist for a thorough evaluation. A doctor can check for signs of eye disease, vascular disease, or a detached retina by taking diagnostic imaging scans and carefully examining the eye. He or she may do blood tests to look for toxins from medications or signs of anemia.
Treatment for a visual migraine depends on the underlying cause. Patients who do not appear to have health problems usually do not require medical attention. They are simply sent home and instructed to return if the problems reoccur for further analysis. If a drug reaction is to blame, a patient may need to switch medications.
A visual migraine that affects both eyes simultaneously is probably a symptom of the more conventional definition of migraine. The phenomenon is called an aura and typically precedes the onset of a severe headache. A person suffering from migraine with aura should seek immediate medical attention to receive a thorough neurological screening and learn about different medications to reduce pain and the frequency of episodes.
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