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A MyMigraineTeam Member asked a question ๐Ÿ’ญ

Have silent migraines for 15 years. Now 65. 4 months ago had what ophthalmologist diagnosed as retinal migraine. Just had another today. I asked her back then what to do if i get another one eye migraine and she said nothing you can do. Its just a new variant. Not to worry. Is she right?

2 days ago
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MyMigraineTeam

Yes, an ophthalmologist can diagnose retinal migraine. They typically use a combination of tools and methods, including:

- Reviewing your symptoms and family history
- Visual field testing
- Examining the eye with an ophthalmoscope to check for vasospasm (temporary narrowing of blood vessels)
- Asking you to draw what you Show Full Answer

Yes, an ophthalmologist can diagnose retinal migraine. They typically use a combination of tools and methods, including:

- Reviewing your symptoms and family history
- Visual field testing
- Examining the eye with an ophthalmoscope to check for vasospasm (temporary narrowing of blood vessels)
- Asking you to draw what you see to confirm an aura pattern Having silent migraines for 15 years and now experiencing retinal migraines is a notable shift worth taking seriously. Retinal migraine involves temporary vision loss or disturbances in one eye, caused by a brief reduction in blood flow to the retina.

While symptoms are usually short-lived (5โ€“60 minutes), it's worth knowing that in rare cases, some people do experience lasting vision changes. That's not meant to alarm โ€” just something to be aware of. Your ophthalmologist isn't wrong that retinal migraine can be a new variant for someone with a migraine history. However, given that you've now had a second episode, it would be reasonable to also consult a neurologist. They can help explore whether any preventive treatment options make sense for you, and ensure nothing more serious is being overlooked.

You deserve more than "nothing you can do" as an answer. ๐Ÿ’™

2 days ago

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A MyMigraineTeam Member asked a question ๐Ÿ’ญ