What’s the Difference Between Ocular and Visual Migraines?

Migraines are headaches with a pulsing sensation that typically occur in one side of the head. A migraine can happen along with other symptoms like light and sound sensitivity, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms can last for a few hours up to days. Sometimes, the pain makes it difficult for sufferers to go on with their day. 

Two types of migraines, visual and ocular, can affect your vision. Read on to learn about the difference between them. 

Visual Migraine

People with visual migraines tend to experience temporary vision loss in both eyes. Symptoms tend to fade away after around 30 minutes, but can last longer. How long a visual migraine lasts depends on several factors, such as your overall well-being and stress levels. 

Visual migraines can cause a glimmering blind spot, usually in your central field of vision. They can also create a spot in your field of vision that appears to slowly move around. Some people see a zigzag ring of colored light around a central blind spot. 

Ocular Migraine

Ocular migraines are not as common as visual migraines. Temporary vision impairment and blindness in one eye are common symptoms. Reduced blood flow or blood vessel spasms in the retina cause this type of migraine. Ocular migraines can cause a small blind spot that can disrupt the central vision in one eye. Over time, the blind spot expands, making it difficult to perform daily tasks, such as reading and driving.  

In ocular migraines, vision loss only occurs in a single eye, while visual migraines affect both eyes. You can determine which one you are experiencing by covering one eye and observing your vision. Repeat the process for your other eye. If only one eye is affected, it means it’s an ocular migraine. 

Contact your eye doctor immediately if you notice changes in your vision. At Vienna Eyecare Center, we are here to take care of your eye health and vision. Call us at (703) 938-7633 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We assist patients around Reston, Fairfax and Tysons Corner, VA.