Migraine headaches: diagnosis and management.

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.