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Perspectives on migraine: prevalence and visual symptoms
Ian F Gutteridge1, Barry L Cole
1Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, 374 Cardigan St, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia.
Clinical & Experimental Optometry
|October 9, 2002
Summary
Migraine affects many, with optometrists often diagnosing undiagnosed cases. Early diagnosis and referral can help manage migraine frequency and severity.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neurology
Background:
- Migraine is a common neurological disorder affecting 20% of women and 10% of men.
- A significant proportion of migraineurs experience aura, with visual aura being the most frequent.
- Many migraine sufferers presenting for optometric care lack a formal diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the prevalence of migraine in optometric patients.
- To emphasize the role of optometrists in diagnosing migraine and aura.
- To guide optometrists in managing complex migraine presentations.
Main Methods:
- Survey of patients in an Australian optometric practice.
- Analysis of migraine prevalence and aura characteristics.
- Review of diagnostic challenges and management strategies for migraine.
Main Results:
- High prevalence of migraine found in the optometric practice setting.
- A substantial number of patients (over 40%) lacked a formal migraine diagnosis.
- Visual aura is a common feature, but atypical presentations pose diagnostic challenges.
Conclusions:
- Optometrists play a crucial role in diagnosing migraine and providing reassurance.
- Thorough ocular and visual examinations are essential for diagnosing migraine, especially with atypical features.
- Referral for neurological assessment may be necessary for complex cases or when migraine is a risk factor for other conditions.