Managing a Visual Migraine Attack

If you are having a visual migraine attack, then you may not even need migraine remedies for it. Visual migraines are called by many names (migraine aura without headaches, typical aura with headaches, ophthalmic migraines, optical migraines, ocular migraines, eye migraine, or the most commonly used silent migraines), but the use of the term "migraine" does not necessarily mean that you are experiencing a splitting headache.

Yes, this is the migraine without a headache. A visual migraine sufferer usually passes through the migraine without even knowing it was one. It usually affects just one eye via having episodes of one or some of the following: blurred vision, temporary blindness in one eye (usually just a spot out of the eye, either in the center or the peripheral - side - vision), zigzag lines and flickering lights (something like lights in a rave, overcrowded bar; this definitely interferes with your vision). It can be accompanied by a headache, but it is a very rare phenomenon. However, other physical symptoms may include feelings of nausea, vomiting, fatigue and a heightened sensitivity to light and sounds.

Why does a visual migraine happen? This type usually attacks 2 specific parts of your head: the brain's visual function center, and the eye itself. This is usually due to a spasm in the blood vessels directly behind the eyes - similar to having a cramp in the leg. Also, arteries leading to the brain are affected, which eventually leads to this type of migraine.

People who are more susceptible to getting the migraine are as follows:
- Possibly men and women under the age of 40;
- Women in general (studies have shown that more women suffer from migraine than men); and
- A person who has a history of one or more of the following: depression, epilepsy, sickle disease (a genetic blood disorder that gives abnormal red blood cells difficulty in passing through small blood vessels) and migraines.

There are the common migraine triggers - usually the same culprits from the classic type of migraine. Stress, cheeses, salty foods, caffeine, chocolates and mono sodium glutamate (or more commonly known as MSG) are just some of the things you should watch out for if you suspect that you have a visual migraine.

Most people who suffer from this type don't take steps to arrange an appointment with their doctor or health care provider for a checkup. If you've already suffered from this migraine, and has been checked out already, then there is no real cause for concerns. But if you are experiencing a visual migraine for the first time, then consult a doctor, specifically an eye doctor, just to safely rule out other medical conditions, such as a detached retina (the retina pulls away from the supportive tissue where permanent vision loss can be had; this can also be caused by very high levels of nearsightedness, ophthalmic surgeries and an injury to the eye or face). Treatment (if necessary) can then be given to you depending on the severity of the migraine and upon the recommendation of your doctor.

Know what the causes of migraines and headaches.