What are Ocular Migraines?

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If you’ve ever had the frightening experience of temporarily losing vision in one eye, you may be dealing with a rare but concerning condition known as ocular migraines. In this article, we’ll explain what ocular migraines are, what causes them, and what you need to do if you believe that you are suffering from this condition.

Ocular Migraines Explained

Ocular migraines occur when blood flow behind the eye is constricted or the blood vessels behind the eye begin to spasm. The result is a temporary loss of vision in the affected eye that may last for an hour or more. Aside from the fear and discomfort caused by vision loss, ocular migraines can often be a pain-free experience. However, they may also be accompanied by a migraine headache. It’s thought that migraine headaches and ocular migraines both share the same cause, with both conditions being triggered when the brain releases inflammatory substances around the blood vessels and nerves in the patient’s head and brain.

It’s also important to note the distinction between ocular migraines and the less severe visual migraines. While both share similar symptoms, they are sperate conditions. Ocular migraines are considered to be the more serious of the two and tend to affect only one eye for a more extended period – as opposed to visual migraines which affect both eyes and have a shorter duration. With that said, it’s wise to see a doctor if you experience any vision loss, regardless of whether it is caused by an ocular migraine or a visual migraine.

Treating Ocular Migraines

While ocular migraines can be a frightening condition, they are typically relatively easy to treat and prevent using the same medication that is used to prevent migraine headaches. If you experience any form of vision loss – even if it is temporary – it is important to see an eye doctor as soon as possible. Vision loss may mean that you are suffering from ocular migraines or an even more serious condition.

At Riverdale Vision Care, we are experts who are treating and preventing ocular migraines as well as all other vision-related conditions. If you would like to schedule an appointment with one of our skilled physicians, we invite you to contact us today.

Top Questions to ask your Optometrist

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When you’re visiting your optometrist in Riverdale, it’s a great opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have. Whether your questions pertain to your own eye health or eye care in general, your optometrist will be more than happy to answer your questions. Here are some of the top questions you might want to ask.

1. Are My Eyes Aging as They Should Be?

Eyes age along with the rest of the body. As you age, you may notice certain changes in your eyesight that you can discuss with your optometrist. But one of the things you might like to talk about is whether your eyes are aging as they should be considering your actual age. It will be comforting to know if things are progressing as they should be. If not, this is an excellent chance to have an open discussion about what you can do to improve your eye health.

2. Are Drugstore Readers Safe to Use?

Drugstore readers are those inexpensive eyeglasses that you see hanging on cardboard displays. Essentially, they’re just magnifying lenses set into eyeglass frames, but many people feel they are very convenient to use. If you require readers to see up close and you’re tempted to buy drugstore readers, it’s best to talk to your optometrist first. There’s a chance that those readers may do more harm than good, or your optometrist may tell you they’re fine to use in your case. Either way, get the professional’s opinion first.

3. Am I a Good Candidate for Laser Eye Surgery?

Laser surgery could enable you to forego wearing glasses or contact lenses. This treatment option has been around for long enough to prove its safety and efficacy. However, your eyes need to be in a reasonably good healthy in order for optimal results. If you’re tempted to undergo this procedure, speak to your optometrist in Riverdale, who is familiar with your eye history and condition.
These top three questions are all things that your optometrist will be happy to discuss with you on your next visit. To make your appointment today, please email or call us.

Protecting Your Eyes Over the Summer Holidays

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As the biggest holiday of summer vacation rolls around, you want to be ready. Drinks are on ice, and your favorite bathing suit is looking good, and… you have the latest safety gear for your eyes? Does that sound about right? If your eyes are the last thing on your mind for this Fourth of July, don’t worry. We have you covered with advice on how to protect your eyes this sizzling summer season.

Daytime Fun in the Sun

If you get lucky enough to have sunny weather on this Fourth of July, hopefully, you will remember to wear your shades. The UV damage from sun rays can lead to sunburns of the cornea and even advanced aging and vision loss. Make sure to wear sunglasses that block UV rays by 100 percent.

Fireworks by Nightfall

The grand finale of this explosive summer event is a round or two of fireworks. To protect your eyes against the fallback of these explosives, always stay at least 500 feet away. If you are using fireworks, such as sparklers or other simple explosives, among children, make sure they are wearing safety goggles to protect their eyes.

Swimming and Summer Safety

Saltwater, chlorine, or river water…wherever you manage to cool off this Fourth of July, make sure you are wearing eyewear. Swimming goggles fitted with prescription lenses are ideal if you need to have vision correction in order to see clearly. Basic goggles protect the eye against swimming bacteria or other such creatures. You won’t be left with red itchy eyes at the end of a fun-filled swimming day on the Fourth.

Contact Riverdale Vision Care

The best way to protect your eyes this Fourth of July is to come in for a comprehensive eye and vision exam. Here at Riverdale Vision Care, we provide eye health care for your entire family. Whether you need someone for pediatric eye exams or to diagnose macular degeneration, we have you covered. Please contact our office at 973-248-0600 to schedule an appointment for eye care in Riverdale, New Jersey.