Lights That Cause Migraines

Lights That Cause Migraines

Migraines are intense headaches, usually on one side of the head, that can bring with them a whole host of painful and uncomfortable symptoms, like nausea, vomiting, and light or sound sensitivity. Because they can last anywhere from hours to days, they can be extremely disruptive to the daily lives of those who suffer from them.
Luckily, there are ways to mitigate the symptoms, including being conscious of different types of lights and what impact they have on those who suffer from migraines:

1. Overhead fluorescent light
Because people who suffer from migraines are often hypersensitive to light, overhead lights in offices or grocery stores can be a consistent source of discomfort. In order to be able to freely work or shop, glasses that are made for people who suffer from photophobia are the best way to mitigate the impact.

2. Computer screen glare
Though it might not be immediately obvious, your computer screen can be triggering migraines. Computer vision syndrome (CVS for short) refers to the visual or other symptoms resulting from exposure to screens, like phones, tablets, or computers. In addition to worsening migraines, they can also cause them. Some ways to lessen the impact of screen usage are to change the screen brightness, only use screens in short bursts, and use a blue light filter (or blue light glasses). If the glare from your screen is what is bothering you, try to avoid using your computer during the day, or close your blinds and curtains.

3. Bright lights on TV
Similar to computer screen glare, extended time watching television can cause a migraine to come on, and for multiple reasons. For one, television and other screens cause your eyes to strain, and blue light is especially hard on your eyes. If you find that TV is a frequent trigger for migraines, it is important to take significant breaks during advertisements, or close your eyes for several minutes between watching or staring at your screen. The quality of your television can also cause a problem, if the poor resolution is what is forcing your eyes to strain.

4. Strobe lights at concerts
Flashing lights like strobes can be a frequent trigger for migraine-sufferers. For this reason, many people who know they might get a migraine avoid arenas like concerts, where there are often flashing or pulsing lights (a similar reaction can be had to emergency vehicle flashing, or even a quick moment of flash photography). This happens because people who suffer from migraines have a high sensitivity to light/dark contrast. As a solution, tinted glasses may help mitigate the effects caused by flashing lights. Look for glasses that are geared toward indoor use, or symptoms of migraines specifically.

5. Bright sunlight
Like fluorescent overhead light, the bright light outside can also be painful for migraine-sufferers. This can make the summer season almost unbearable for some, as many activities require being outdoors. If this is a recurring trigger, consider wide-brimmed hats or sunglasses, and drink plenty of water throughout the day, as dehydration is a frequent cause of migraines.