How to Cope with Occular Migraines

Migraines are debilitating, excruciating headaches that render the sufferer powerless once one strikes. Migraines are often brought on by certain "triggers." The "triggers" may be anything from too much reading or computer work, food, especially preservatives such as MSG, environment, stress or not eating regular meals. Prescription medicine is available to ease the debilitating effects of a migraine which may work on most types of headache, including in this case ocular migraines which affect the eyes.

Things You'll Need

• Dark room
• Cool washcloth
• Absolute quiet
• Cool room

Instructions

1. Ocular migraines may make the sufferer dizzy, get double vision, blurred vision, see flashing lights, have blindness or blindspots, feel nauseous, sweat profusely, suffer intense eye pain and vomit. Instant action is needed for relief of some of these symptoms. Take your medication if you have it handy.

2. Dampen a washcloth with cool water and place on your forehead. Carefully make your way to a place where you can lay down in a darkened area and not be disturbed by anyone. Lie down, close your eyes and reposition the cool washcloth. Let people know what is happening and that you have to have silence.

3. Breathe some deep breaths and try to relax and forget all the sources of stress or tension that you may be feeling. If the nausea turns to actual vomiting, it may relieve some of your symptoms. Sleeping for four hours or more is common after a migraine attack and will usually quell any residual symptoms and the sufferer will feel refreshed and much better on awakening.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to figure out your "triggers" and avoid them to reduce the frequency of your migraine attacks

• If you are not currently prescribed medication for your condition, a trip to your primary care physician is recommended

• Visit an eye doctor and have him check your eyes and your vision for any abnormalities

• If you are driving and are overcome by a sudden migraine attack please pull over at the closest safe place to stop and call somebody to help you cope with the situation