Eye Conditions

Ocular & visual migraine

A visual or 'ocular' migraine causes temporary visual disturbances — shimmering lights, zig-zag lines or a blind spot — that come and go over a short time. They can be alarming the first time, but are usually harmless. Still, a first episode or a sudden change is worth having checked.

What it is

Migraine can affect vision as well as cause headache. A common form is the visual 'aura' — shimmering or zig-zag lines, or a spreading blind spot — that builds over 10 to 30 minutes and then fades, sometimes with a headache and sometimes without.

It's a temporary change in how the brain processes vision, not damage to the eye. Because the symptoms can overlap with more serious causes, a first episode is worth checking to be safe.

What you might notice

Shimmering, flickering or zig-zag lines
A spreading blind spot or patch of missing vision
Symptoms that build over minutes, then fade
Sometimes followed by a headache
Usually affecting the vision in both eyes

Recognise these? Book a consultation and we'll help you get to the bottom of it.

When to seek help urgently

A sudden, lasting change in vision — especially in one eye, or with weakness, numbness or difficulty speaking — is not a migraine and needs urgent medical attention. Call 111 if you have stroke-like symptoms.

What causes it

The same triggers as other migraines — stress, tiredness, skipped meals, certain foods, hormonal changes, and bright light or screens for some people.

They can occur with or without the headache part of a migraine.

How we help

Dr Leong can confirm that your symptoms fit a visual migraine and check your eyes are healthy, ruling out other causes of visual disturbance — especially reassuring after a first episode.

Once the pattern is clear, managing your migraine triggers is usually the key, and we can point you to the right support.

Explore General Ophthalmology

Common questions

Are ocular migraines dangerous?

Usually not — the visual disturbance is temporary and doesn't damage the eye. But because the symptoms can mimic more serious causes, a first episode or a change in pattern is worth having checked.

How long does an ocular migraine last?

The visual part typically builds over 10 to 30 minutes and then fades. If a headache follows, it can last longer. Vision returns fully to normal afterwards.

What's the difference between an ocular migraine and a stroke?

A migraine's visual symptoms build and fade over minutes and clear completely, usually affecting both eyes. Sudden, lasting loss of vision — especially in one eye, or with weakness or slurred speech — is not a migraine and needs urgent care.

What triggers visual migraines?

Common triggers include stress, tiredness, skipped meals, certain foods, hormonal changes and bright light or screens. Noticing your own triggers is a big part of managing them.

This page is general information, not medical advice, and doesn't replace a consultation. For anything specific to your own eyes, call us for advice or to book an appointment with Dr Leong on 04 470 7663.

Ready to see clearly?

Book a consultation with Dr Leong, or call the clinic to talk it through. We're here to help you see your very best.

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