Retinal Migraine: Symptoms, Causes, and What to Do When You See Flashing Lights
When you see flashing lights, blind spots, or sudden vision loss in one eye, a rare type of migraine that affects the retina. Also known as ocular migraine, it’s not the same as a typical migraine with aura that affects both eyes. This isn’t just a headache with weird visuals—it’s a neurological event happening right in your eye’s blood supply.
Retinal migraine, a subtype of migraine that originates in the retina or optic nerve, usually lasts under an hour. You might notice a small blind spot that grows, or your vision might dim like a light being turned off. It often comes before or during a throbbing headache, but sometimes it happens alone. Unlike migraine with aura, a more common form affecting both eyes with zigzag lines or tingling, retinal migraine affects just one eye. Cover one eye at a time—if the disturbance disappears when you cover the affected eye, it’s likely retinal.
What causes it? No one knows for sure, but it’s tied to blood vessel spasms in the retina. Stress, bright lights, high altitude, and hormonal changes can trigger it. Smoking and birth control pills may raise your risk. It’s rare—less than 1 in 200 migraine sufferers get this version—but it’s serious. If you’ve never had it before, get it checked. You need to rule out retinal detachment, stroke, or other eye emergencies.
Most people don’t need special treatment. Rest in a dark room, stay hydrated, and avoid triggers. If it happens often, your doctor might suggest blood pressure meds like calcium channel blockers. Never ignore vision loss in one eye—even if it goes away. Keep a log: when it happened, what you were doing, how long it lasted. That info helps your doctor decide if it’s harmless or a sign of something worse.
Below, you’ll find real-world advice on managing this condition, spotting red flags, and understanding how it connects to other migraine types, eye health, and medication safety. These aren’t just general tips—they’re based on actual patient experiences and medical guidance.
- 3/Dec/2025
- by William Womack
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ocular migraines
visual aura
retinal migraine
migraine with aura
when to see a doctor
Ocular Migraines: Visual Aura and When to Worry
Ocular migraines aren't one condition-they're two. Learn the difference between migraine with aura and retinal migraine, what triggers them, and the critical warning signs that mean you need urgent care.
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