The Relationship Between Migraines in Children and Visual Stress
While many people mistakenly think of migraines as an “adult problem,” they affect a shocking number of children. According to the Cleveland Clinic, 4 out of 5 migraine sufferers have a family history. If one parent has migraine issues, the child has over a 50% chance of developing them, and if both parents have migraines, the risk is a whopping 75%. Unfortunately, migraines affect 1.5% of children aged 0-7, and almost 5% of children by age 15.
While migraines can have a genetic component, visual stress is a powerful cause of these debilitating issues. As in many Irlen Syndrome sufferers, visual stress doesn’t just go hand in hand with migraines. It also has a direct relationship with learning disabilities like dyslexia. One study examined both students with dyslexia and Irlen Syndrome, and found that students with Irlen Syndrome were more sensitive to visual stress.
The Relationship Between Computer Stress and Migraines in Kids and Adults
As computer and electronic use increases among kids and adults, it’s no surprise that headaches are becoming a more common problem. One study found that 66-71% of 12-15-year-olds have at least one headache every three months, and almost 40% have one a week. As headaches become more common, it’s evident that electronics are part of the problem. One study found that 85% of migraine sufferers believed that LED and LCD screens lead to an increase in the frequency and severity of their attacks. Due to eye strain, brightness that is too high, poor posture and too much blue light, many migraine sufferers get no relief when they are required to use electronics and computers throughout the day.
Why Electronics, Light and Driving at Night Can Lead to Migraine Symptoms and Stress
As we mentioned above, light and electronic usage are directly linked to migraines and headaches. In the winter, the glare off of the snow can even start a migraine. Did you know that some people can have migraines triggered by driving at night and seeing the glare of headlights from other cars?
When you are dealing with migraine symptoms and exacerbation of Irlen Syndrome symptoms due to night driving, driving in snow, lighting conditions or electronics, there are several ways you can work to offset the symptoms:
- Use the “night setting” on your rearview mirror and electronics to lower brightness and reduce blue light
- Blue light tinted glasses may help. However, Irlen Spectral RX or no RX tinted lenses are uniquely calibrated to eliminate stress in your eyes and your brain. With hundreds of thousands of color combinations to choose from, they are customized to create your unique Irlen filter RX. irlen tints provide profound relief and immediate benefits.
- Talk to Shoshana Shamberg about how to treat your symptoms for greater comfort
The Amen Clinics are experts in treating the variety of conditions that often occur alongside Irlen Syndrome, including ADD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, sleep disorders, traumatic brain injury and more. The innovative brain scans performed at the clinic are powerful tools that offer unparalleled insight into what is going on in the brain. To learn more about the Amen Clinics, visit their website: https://www.amenclinics.com/
How Can You Deal with Damaging Migraine and Visual Stress Symptoms?
Individuals who suffer from migraines, particularly those who experience a visual aura beforehand, are very susceptible to physiologically strong visual stimuli. In a groundbreaking study, stimuli including bright light and other visual patterns were found to trigger migraine attacks. Irlen Spectral Filters have been found to help prevent migraine headaches in those who are sensitive to light and visual stress. The study concluded that Irlen Lenses are a powerful “new prophylactic therapy for migraine” that is “safe, free of side effects and inexpensive.”
Abilities OT & Irlen Diagnostic Center is a leader in providing Irlen diagnostic and Irlen Spectral Filter services to children and adults. Take a look at some brain scans performed of Irlen Lens wearers with and without spectral filters to see the difference yourself. If you are suffering from migraine and visual stress symptoms, don’t suffer any longer. Contact Shoshana Shamberg today.
Contact Us Today
To learn more about our Irlen Syndrome Testing, Occupational Therapy, Brain Gym, accessibility consultations, and injury prevention services, call us today at (410) 358-7269.To get started at home, complete a pre-assessment for Sensory Processing Disorder, schedule a free phone consultation, and learn more about the Irlen screening process, Irlen diagnostic testing, Irlen re-tint testing, and who we help.
