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Migraines are often associated with pounding headaches, but they can also affect your vision. Ocular migraines, also known as retinal migraines or visual migraines, are a unique type of migraine that primarily manifests as visual disturbances. This means that the symptoms revolve around your eyes and the way you perceive the world around you. The visual disturbances associated with ocular migraines are short-lived, lasting less than an hour.
Visual disturbances can include:
- Flickering lights
- Shimmering or zigzag lines
- Temporary blind spots
- Momentary loss of vision in one eye
Triggers can include:
- Stress
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Specific foods
- Exposure to bright lights, or even distinct patterns
Although ocular migraines are relatively benign, it’s essential to distinguish them from more serious conditions that can cause similar visual disruptions, such as retinal detachment.
Always seek prompt medical attention if you experience sudden visual changes.