Ophthalmic Migraines

The term “migraine” means a severe headache to most people. However, ophthalmic migraines (commonly called ocular migraine) can occur and may cause no pain.

Ophthalmic migraines can cause a variety of visual symptoms. They may appear suddenly, creating the sensation of looking through a cracked window. Typically one will see a small, enlarging blind spot (scotoma) in your central vision with bright, flickering lights or a shimmering zig-zag line inside the blind spot. The blind spot usually enlarges and may move across your field of vision. Vision clears in the center of the spot as the shimmering arc of light progresses to the periphery and resolves. This entire migraine phenomenon may end in only a few minutes, but usually lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. Headache may begin towards the end of the visual disturbance but does not always occur.

There are items of concern. The area of visual disturbance starts centrally and may interfere enough with vision that ability to drive or operate machinery may be affected. The safest action to take when visual disturbance begins is to rest until vision returns to normal.

There are other conditions with more serious consequences which may cause visual disturbance and flashing lights. Retinal tears that can lead to retinal detachment may also cause a sensation of flashing lights. The only way to completely rule out a retinal problem is with a dilated eye exam. A picture through an undilated pupil is never adequate.

The good news is that ophthalmic migraines usually are painless and cause no permanent visual changes. But if these symptoms recur regularly or with increasing frequency, your doctor may prescribe medication to reduce the frequency and/or severity of attacks.

Yeah summer is coming...

Summer is quickly approaching and the time for outdoor grilling and activities will soon be here. Here are some things to remember:

Food
Cook your meats, vegetables and fruits on the grill. Not only will they taste better, but also you will be eating healthier for your eyes. Include in your diet more fruits and vegetables that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C. vitamin E, beta carotene and zinc. These foods include leafy green vegetables, nuts, peaches, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, carrots, oranges, grapefruit, strawberries, tomatoes, lean beef and pork, eggs, shellfish, milk and whole grains. Foods rich in these are good for the health of your eye. Two groups of people these foods will help include those with diabetes and age-related macular degeneration.

Safety
Summer means fun, but always remember to protect your eyes. Wear your sunglasses or safety glasses during sports activities, while performing lawn chores and when using chemicals such as chlorine, gas, etc. The gift of sight is precious; protect it.

2010 Derby Princesses Visit Our Optical Shop

On Wednesday April 14th, the 2010 Derby Princesses came to The Eye Care Institute’s Optical Shop at Story Avenue. Each woman selected her own pair of designer sunglasses as a perk to their positions on the Kentucky Derby Festival’s Royal Court. They were accompanied by Kentucky Derby Festival Filly, Patsy Allen. The ladies had a wonderful time picking out their favorite pair of sunglasses and they really enjoyed themselves.