Migraines are more than just headaches. Many people who have migraines also experience vision changes. This can happen before or during an episode. These changes can feel scary. However, understanding them can help you know what is happening. Along with when to seek care. Trusted sources like the Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) explain how migraines can affect vision.

What Is a Migraine?

A migraine is a health condition. One that causes repeated headaches. Headaches that are paired with other symptoms. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), migraines can include nausea and sensitivity to light. In addition to having trouble doing everyday activities. 

Some people also experience something called an aura. Which often includes vision problems.

What Is a Migraine Aura?

A migraine aura is a group of warning signs. Signs that can happen before a migraine starts. The Mayo Clinic explains that aura symptoms usually last less than one hour. While affecting your vision. 

Common visual symptoms include:

• Flashes of light
• Zigzag lines
• Shimmering or sparkling spots
• Blind spots or partial vision loss 

The Cleveland Clinic notes that these changes are caused by temporary changes in brain activity. Which are not damage to the eyes themselves. 

How Migraines Affect Vision

Vision changes are one of the most common migraine symptoms. Research shows that about one-third of people with migraines experience aura. Especially visual disturbances. 

These changes can:

• Start in the center of your vision and move outward
• Affect both eyes (in most cases)
• Come on gradually and then go away

Although these symptoms are usually temporary, they can make it hard to read, drive, or focus.

Types of Migraine-Related Vision Problems

There are different types of migraines that can affect vision:

Migraine with aura
This is the most common type. It affects both eyes and causes temporary visual changes. Like flashing lights. As well as have blind spots. 

Ocular (retinal) migraine
This type affects one eye. And may cause temporary vision loss or dark spots. Vision usually returns to normal after the episode. 

It is important to know the difference. Due to vision problems in one eye can sometimes be linked to other eye conditions.

When to Seek Medical Care

Most migraine-related vision changes are not dangerous. However, some symptoms need medical attention right away.

You should seek care if you experience:

• Vision loss in only one eye
• Sudden or new vision changes
• Symptoms that last longer than one hour
• Vision problems without a headache for the first time

The Mayo Clinic emphasizes that these symptoms can sometimes look like more serious conditions. Such as a stroke. This is why it is important to get checked. 

Managing Migraines and Protecting Your Vision

There is no cure for migraines. However, there are ways to manage them. The NINDS explains that triggers like stress, bright lights, lack of sleep, and certain foods can increase the risk of migraines.

Helpful steps include:

• Getting enough sleep
• Managing stress
• Avoiding known triggers
• Working with a healthcare provider for treatment

Regular checkups can also help make sure your symptoms are properly evaluated.

Visit Clinicas

If you are experiencing migraines or changes in your vision, it is important to get the right care. Visit us at Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. Our Vision Care Providers can help evaluate your symptoms. As well as  make sure your eyes are healthy.

We encourage you to schedule an eye exam to rule out other conditions. As well as better understand what is causing your vision changes. Early evaluation can help you manage symptoms. In addition to protecting your long-term eye health.