Migraine headaches: Diagnosis and management

BackgroundPatients 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.MethodsThe literature on migraine is reviewed to provide the optometrist with current information to manage these patients.ResultsIncluded in the review are migraine epidemiology, pathophysiology, categorization, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment.ConclusionOptometrists can help their migraine patients with a thorough examination, advice, proper referrals, and optical management when appropriate.