Eye migraine is also known as ophthalmic migraine and is a common migraine disorder. An individual suffering from this type of migraine experiences a wide range of visual distortions such as bright crisscross lines, strange geometrical shapes, sudden flashes of light and glare. The symptoms of eye migraine usually subside within a few minutes but can be quite distressing.

Causes of Eye migraine:

Changes in the hormonal balance

Presence of a cramp or seizure in the blood vessels located behind the eye.

Intake of foods such as chocolate, aged cheese and monosodium glutamate which is found in most Asian food seasonings and canned foods and soups.

Exposure to pungent smells or strong perfumes

Drastic changes or irregularity in the sleep pattern

Intake of certain medicinal drugs

In certain cases of eye migraine, the headache phase is experienced once the visual distortions have subsided, whereas in other cases no headache is experienced and vice versa.

Treatment:

This type of migraine is usually treated by taking adequate rest in a dark room and doesn’t require medication since this condition rarely repeats itself. The symptoms of this type of migraine occur rarely. However, if the symptoms are experienced on a regular basis, drugs can be taken to treat this condition and prevent it from interfering with the normal run of your life. Medicines can help in minimizing the frequency as well as the severity of eye migraine. It is advised to take any type of medication under the supervision of a doctor. Taking drugs to treat this condition is a step taken only in cases where the symptoms are experienced on a daily basis and make it hard to lead a normal life.

Some of the most commonly used drugs to treat this condition are non- steroidal anti- inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin which might prove to be effective in providing relief from the symptoms of eye migraine. Both nasal and oral form of Imitrex available in the market is another useful treatment for eye migraine. For providing relief from nausea and vomiting Metoclopramide is very effective.