Migraines with visual disturbances
Overview
Migraines with visual disturbances are severe headaches accompanied by temporary vision changes such as flashing lights, blind spots, or zigzag patterns. These visual symptoms, also called aura, typically occur before or during the migraine headache and can significantly impact daily activities.
Common Causes
Migraines with visual disturbances can be triggered by hormonal changes, especially in women during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. Stress, lack of sleep, and irregular sleep patterns are common lifestyle factors that can bring on these episodes. Certain foods like aged cheeses, chocolate, or foods containing MSG may act as triggers for some people. Changes in weather, bright lights, or strong smells can also provoke migraines with visual symptoms. Dehydration and skipping meals are additional lifestyle factors that may contribute to these headaches.
Severity Levels
Mild: You may notice brief, subtle visual changes like small flashing spots or slight blurriness that don't interfere much with your daily routine. The headache is manageable with rest and over-the-counter pain relief.
Moderate: Visual disturbances are more noticeable and may include larger blind spots or zigzag patterns that make tasks like reading or driving difficult. You'll likely need to stop your activities and seek a quiet, dark space for relief.
Severe: Visual symptoms are intense and overwhelming, potentially causing complete temporary vision loss in parts of your visual field. The accompanying headache is debilitating, often requiring prescription medication and complete rest in a dark room.
Medical Attention
You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden, severe visual changes that are different from your usual migraine pattern, or if you have vision loss that doesn't improve after your headache ends. Contact your doctor if your migraines become more frequent, severe, or are accompanied by fever, stiff neck, confusion, or weakness. It's also important to get medical help if you develop new visual symptoms for the first time, especially if you're over 50 or have other health conditions.
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