Eye Questions - Migraine
by Mark Pophal, M.D.

Dr. Pophal would like to remind you that without an exam many of your questions cannot be properly answered.

Your vision is important and should not be taken for granted, or taken lightly. It is wise to see an eye doctor right away if you have questions or problems with your eyes or vision.

Useful information can be found at the American Academy of Ophthalmology website

Q. What do eye flashes have to do with migraine headaches?

A. Some people experience flashes of light that appear as jagged lines or "heat waves" in both eyes, often lasting 10 to 20 minutes. These types of flashes are usually caused by a spasm of blood vessels in the brain, which is called migraine.

If a headache follows the flashes, it is called a migraine headache. However, jagged lines or "heat waves" can occur without a headache.

In this case, the light flashes are called ophthalmic migraine, or migraine without headache. Contact your ophthalmologist if you experience these symptoms.

NOTE: Floaters and flashes of light become more common as we grow older. While not all floaters and flashes are serious, you should always have a medical eye examination by an ophthalmologist to make sure there has been no damage to your retina.