Understanding Retinal Migraines

Have you ever experienced brief periods of sparkling light or vision loss in one eye? You may have had a retinal migraine. Retinal migraine refers to a type of migraine that involves visual disturbances in one eye, which may or may not be followed by a headache. 

 According to the American Migraine Foundation, retinal migraines have often fallen under the category of “ocular migraines” and can be confused with the term “migraine with aura,” a separate type of visual disturbance that accompanies migraine headaches. While both involve visual disturbances, retinal migraines tend to be more intrusive and occur in one eye, unlike migraines with aura in which symptoms may be present in both eyes. Another significant difference is that migraines with aura are not usually cause for concern, whereas retinal migraines may be indicative of a more serious underlying condition. 

Causes:

Retinal migraines share many of the same causes and triggers as migraines (with and without aura). These include stress, high blood pressure, smoking, contraceptive pills/hormonal changes, dehydration, low blood sugar, harsh lights or electronic screens, alcohol, changes in weather, skipping meals/undereating, too much or too little sleep, and other taxing visual activities. The American Migraine Foundation, says that the source of retinal migraines is similar to other migraine conditions in that they do not have a definitive root cause, though retinal migraines specifically may happen as a result of abnormal electrical activity around the retina, or a lack of blood flow to the retina. 

Signs and Symptoms:

• Visual disturbances that occur in one eye only 

• Seeing twinkling lights or sparkles (Scintillations)

• Areas of decreased or lost vision (Scotoma)

• Symptoms that last between five and 60 minutes

• May or may not be accompanied by a headache that begins during the disturbance or within an hour afterward 

Treatments:

• Avoiding migraine triggers 

• Migraine treatment — recommended by a doctor — which may include over-the-counter medications (acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen) or prescription medications that treat migraines themselves or accompanying symptoms such as nausea.

• Non-medication treatments like resting the eyes, taking some time away from screens, and avoiding rooms with bright sunlight or harsh lighting. 

Most retinal migraines are short lived, though their frequency can vary from person to person. If occurring infrequently, it's possible that no treatment may be necessary. However, it is recommended that anyone who experiences temporary vision loss or visual disturbances — regardless of severity — see an eye doctor immediately in order to rule out more serious underlying causes, such as strokes.  

The Eye Institute (TEI) of Salus at Drexel University offers comprehensive eye care and exams to help manage a variety of conditions. Call 215.276.6111 to make an appointment at The Eye Institute.