Migraine headaches: diagnosis and management

Abstract

Background: Patients often complain to their optometrist about their headaches, of which migraines are a common type. They may ask if their pain is from visual causes or whether the visual auras they experience are normal.

Methods: The literature on migraine is reviewed to provide the optometrist with current information to manage these patients.

Results: Included in the review are migraine epidemiology, pathophysiology, categorization, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment.

Conclusion: Optometrists can help their migraine patients with a thorough examination, advice, proper referrals, and optical management when appropriate.