It only lasted a few minutes, which is typical, although
some can last 20 to 30 minutes. Apparently ocular migraines are quite common. They’re a called
a “visual disturbance” and can be accompanied by a headache, although mine
wasn’t. (I’ve only had a couple of headaches in my life and certainly never a
migraine—lucky me.)
Ocular migraines are not related to the eye; they are the result of activity in the visual cortex of the brain. Scientists don’t know what causes them, but surmise it has something to do with changes in blood flow to the brain or to particularly sensitive neurons. Apparently ocular migraines can be triggered by hormonal changes, flashing lights, chemicals in foods, medications, and so forth. In my case, it seemed to be nothing.
When I had mine, I knew what it was because my husband has
had a few. The first time he experienced the “visual disturbance” he was rather
alarmed: macular degeneration runs in his family. But a quick call to his opthamologist
assured him that he had nothing to worry about. Ocular migraines are considered
harmless. Usually they are painless, cause no permanent visual or brain damage
and do not require treatment. Good.
For an introduction to this blog, see I Just Say No; for a list of blog topics, click the Topics tab.
For an introduction to this blog, see I Just Say No; for a list of blog topics, click the Topics tab.
I have had Ocular migraines for 25 yr. started when I was 50. Thought my vision was going nuts. Mine always start out as a spot, then grows into a triangle spinning barber pole. Eventually it grows until it goes past the edges of my eyes. Exists in both eyes and even with my eyes closed. Lasts for about 30 min. Have had to stop driving at times when it is in the middle of my eyes. I think mine is related to food, or rather lack of eating. I do note that it has occurred at times that I have skipped breakfast. Does concern me.
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