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Ocular Migraine Treatment

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Ocular Migraine Treatment

Ocular Migraine Treatment

Ocular migraine is a neurological condition characterized by temporary visual disturbances such as flashing lights, zigzag lines, blind spots in the visual field, and sometimes headache. Although there is no physical problem in the eye itself, it leads to distortion in visual perception. For many people, this condition can be frightening and negatively affect quality of life. Since both eye diseases and neurological mechanisms must be evaluated together, Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that ocular migraine treatment should be planned on an individualized basis. With the right approach, ocular migraine can be controlled and the frequency of attacks can be reduced. In this article, we will examine ocular migraine treatment methods comprehensively with both scientific and practical perspectives.

Main Approach to Ocular Migraine Treatment

Personalized Treatment

Ocular migraine does not present the same way in every person. Some experience only visual aura, while others have attacks accompanied by headache. Therefore, the treatment plan should be tailored to individual characteristics. Op. Dr. Diclehan creates the most appropriate treatment strategy by analyzing the patient’s attack frequency, triggers, and lifestyle.

Eye and Neurological Evaluation

Before starting treatment, ocular migraine must be distinguished from other eye or neurological diseases. Retinal tears, acute glaucoma crisis, or cerebrovascular diseases may cause similar symptoms. Eye examination and neurological imaging should be performed when necessary.

Attack Management and Preventive Care

Treatment consists of two main parts:

  • Treatments applied during an attack
  • Preventive treatments to reduce attack frequency

Both are key components of management.

Treatments Used During an Ocular Migraine Attack

Moving to a Dark and Quiet Room

Bright light and noise may worsen symptoms during an attack. Therefore, resting in a dark and quiet room is recommended. According to Op. Dr. Diclehan, this step significantly shortens the duration of the attack.

Cold Compress

Applying a cold compress around the eyes causes the blood vessels to constrict, which may reduce aura and headache. It should be applied for 10–15 minutes.

Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques

Anxiety often increases during a migraine attack. Deep breathing, meditation, and relaxation exercises calm the nervous system and reduce attack severity.

Short-Term Use of Painkillers

Some attacks occur with headache. Mild painkillers (under medical advice) may help. However, excessive or unconscious medication use may worsen migraine and is not recommended.

Avoiding Bright Screens

Phone, computer, and television light may intensify symptoms. Reducing backlight or stopping screen use is helpful.

Eye Resting Techniques

Closing the eyes and resting them for a few minutes relaxes the brain’s visual center.

Preventive Treatment Methods for Ocular Migraine

The most important part of treatment is preventing recurrent attacks.

Regular Sleep Routine

Sleep irregularity is one of the strongest migraine triggers. A consistent sleep schedule significantly reduces attack frequency. Op. Dr. Diclehan recommends going to bed and waking up at the same time every day.

Stress Management

Stress is one of the main triggers of ocular migraine.

Professional Support
Psychotherapy and stress-management programs may be beneficial.

Relaxation Techniques
Meditation, breathing exercises, yoga, and mindfulness may reduce attacks.

Regulating Screen Use

Prolonged screen exposure causes eye strain and may trigger migraine.

20-20-20 Rule
Op. Dr. Diclehan recommends looking at an object 6 meters away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes to relax the eye muscles.

Adjusting Screen Brightness
Screens that are too bright or too dim may trigger migraine.

Increasing Water Intake

Dehydration is a major trigger. Drinking at least 2 liters of water per day may reduce attacks.

Regular Exercise

Light exercise such as walking or yoga regulates brain blood flow and reduces attacks. However, very intense exercise may trigger migraine.

Balanced Nutrition

Some foods trigger migraine. Identifying and reducing them is important.

Possible Trigger Foods

  • Chocolate
  • Excess caffeine
  • Citrus fruits
  • Processed meats
  • Very salty foods

Op. Dr. Diclehan advises patients to keep a diet diary.

Meal Regulation
Long periods without food may trigger migraine.

Protection from Sunlight

Bright sunlight is a major trigger. High-protection sunglasses are recommended outdoors.

Controlling Caffeine Intake

Caffeine may worsen or reduce migraine depending on the individual — personal response should be monitored.

Limiting Smoking and Alcohol

Both may worsen migraine attacks through vascular effects.

Medical Treatment Options in Ocular Migraine

Medications

Depending on severity, a doctor may prescribe:

  • Triptans – effective during attacks
  • Beta-blockers – reduce attack frequency
  • Antidepressants (low dose) – stabilize migraine patterns
  • Antiepileptic drugs – regulate neurological activity

Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that medications must be used only under medical supervision.

Magnesium and Vitamin Supplements

Magnesium deficiency may trigger migraine.

  • Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) – useful for prevention
  • Coenzyme Q10 – supports mitochondrial function and reduces attacks

Botulinum Toxin (Botox)

In patients with severe and frequent migraine, Botox injections into specific head and neck muscle areas may significantly reduce attacks.

Neural Therapy and Acupuncture

Complementary approaches such as neural therapy or acupuncture may help some patients by regulating the nervous system.

Managing Ocular Migraine in Daily Life

Work Environment

People exposed to long-term screen use experience ocular migraine more frequently.

Workspace Adjustments
Screen height, brightness, and ambient lighting directly affect migraine.

Home Relaxation Methods

  • Warm showers
  • Aromatherapy
  • Resting in a dark room
  • Breathing exercises

These can significantly reduce symptoms.

Regular Follow-Up

Migraine requires long-term monitoring. Eye and neurology check-ups should not be neglected. Op. Dr. Diclehan especially emphasizes early evaluation if new symptoms appear.

Who Is More Likely to Experience Ocular Migraine?

  • Women due to hormonal changes
  • Individuals with family history of migraine
  • People under chronic stress
  • Those with excessive screen use
  • People with sleep disorders

Is Ocular Migraine Dangerous?

Ocular migraine usually does not cause permanent damage. However, in some cases it may indicate serious health problems. Therefore, those experiencing it for the first time should consult a specialist. Op. Dr. Diclehan stresses that diagnosis should only be made after detailed examination.

When Should You Seek Urgent Medical Help?

Urgent evaluation is required if

  • Vision loss lasts longer than 1 hour
  • Severe dizziness occurs
  • Speech problems or weakness in the arms or legs develop
  • Progressive darkening of the visual field occurs

These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition.

Ocular migraine is a condition that can be controlled with proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments. Attack frequency is closely related to daily habits, sleep, diet, and stress. Treatment should always be personalized and monitored regularly. At this point, Op. Dr. Diclehan supports patients with a comprehensive approach, helping both to reduce attack frequency and improve quality of life.