Migraines are a neurological condition that can cause debilitating headaches and a range of other symptoms. They affect millions of people worldwide and can significantly impact daily life. While often misunderstood, migraines are more than just headaches—they can involve sensory disturbances, visual changes, and even nausea.

 

What Are Migraines?

 

Migraines are characterized by moderate to severe head pain, often on one side of the head, accompanied by other symptoms such as:

• Visual disturbances (aura)

• Sensitivity to light and sound

• Nausea or vomiting

• Throbbing or pulsating pain​

​

These symptoms can last from a few hours to several days, making timely management crucial for maintaining quality of life.

 

 

Causes of Migraines

 

The exact causes of migraines are not fully understood, but they are believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. Common triggers include:

 

• Stress: Emotional or physical stress can act as a catalyst for migraines.

• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in estrogen levels, especially during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can trigger migraines in women.

• Dietary Factors: Certain foods, beverages, or fasting can precipitate migraine episodes.

• Sensory Stimuli: Bright lights, loud noises, or strong smells can provoke a migraine.

• Eye Strain and Visual Stress: Prolonged screen time or uncorrected vision issues may exacerbate migraines.

 

​

Optometry’s Role in Migraine Management

 

Migraines often have visual components, such as aura or light sensitivity, which means eye care plays a pivotal role in management. Below are some optometry-related strategies to manage migraines effectively:

 

1) Regular Eye Exams:

Routine eye exams can identify underlying visual issues, such as uncorrected refractive errors, that may contribute to migraines. Prescription updates or adjustments to corrective lenses can alleviate unnecessary strain on the visual system.

 

2) Dry Eye Management

Dry eye syndrome can exacerbate light sensitivity and visual discomfort, contributing to migraine episodes. Effective treatments, such as artificial tears, and warm compresses, can improve tear film quality and reduce associated triggers.

​

3) Avulux Migraine Glasses

Avulux glasses are a breakthrough product for migraine management. They are clinically tested to block harmful light while allowing soothing light to pass through. By minimizing exposure to migraine-inducing wavelengths, Avulux helps manage symptoms and prevent episodes.

​

Penshurst Eyecare is an authorised distributor of AVULUX. 

​​

4) FL-41 Tinted Glasses

FL-41 lenses are specially designed to reduce light sensitivity, a common trigger for migraines. These lenses filter out specific wavelengths of light that are most likely to cause discomfort, providing relief for those prone to migraines.​

 

5) Blue Light Blocking Lenses

Exposure to blue light from digital devices can strain the eyes and potentially trigger migraines. Blue light blocking lenses help filter harmful wavelengths, reducing eye strain and mitigating migraine risk.

​

​​

​

Products We Offer

At our clinic, we provide a range of solutions to support migraine management:

• Avulux Glasses: Advanced migraine management lenses designed to reduce light-triggered episodes.

• FL-41 Tinted Glasses: Ideal for those with light sensitivity and frequent migraines.

• Custom Blue Light Blocking Lenses: Tailored to your prescription for everyday protection against digital eye strain.

​

​

 

Lifestyle Tips for Migraine Prevention

In addition to optometric solutions, incorporating the following lifestyle changes can help manage migraines:

1. Maintain Regular Sleep Patterns: Ensure you get adequate and consistent sleep each night.

2. Manage Stress: Practices like mindfulness, meditation, or yoga can help reduce stress-related triggers.

3. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration is a common migraine trigger.

4. Monitor Dietary Triggers: Identify and avoid foods that exacerbate migraines.

5. Take Breaks from Screens: Follow the 20-20-20 rule to reduce digital eye strain.

 

​

​

Book an Appointment Today

 

If you suffer from migraines, our optometry clinic is here to help. With our expertise and tailored solutions, we can help you take control of your migraines and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our migraine-focused products and services.