A PENARTH-based opticians is encouraging individuals to take care of their eye health during Migraine Awareness Week from September 7-13.

A migraine is the most common neurological condition, causing recurrent and painful headaches and can affect people of all ages, from children to elderly people.

It is estimated that two thirds of migraine sufferers are women, and that individuals are most likely to experience migraines between the ages of 20 and 50 years old.

A migraine attack can last from four to 72 hours, and it is estimated that one in seven people in the UK suffer from migraines.

This Migraine Awareness Week, Specsavers in Penarth is urging people to undergo a routine eye examination, as common migraine symptoms can often cause disruption to an individual’s vision, as well as sensitivity to light.

Frank Moloney, director of Specsavers in Penarth, based on Windsor Road, said: "An eye examination is always advisable if you are suffering from any migraine symptoms. And if you are suffering from symptoms on a regular basis, we recommend that you keep a diary of the date and time the attacks occur.

"This will help to narrow down the potential causes of a migraine. For example cheese, chocolate and red wine are all well-known triggers of migraines but, of course, these are just a few of the many potential causes of the neurological condition. Keeping a log can help to identify a link in an individual’s lifestyle, or perhaps an underlying condition that can be identified as the cause to the onset of a migraine."

A migraine is more than just a headache. Symptoms can include:

• Visual disturbances (flashing lights, blind spots in the vision, zig zag patterns etc.)

• Nausea and vomiting

• Sensitivity to light, noise and smells

• Tingling, pins and needles, weakness or numbness in the limbs.¹

Mr Moloney added: "If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, we would recommend that you either call in store for a sight test or make an appointment with your local GP. There is a range of treatment and therapies available that can help alleviate and control migraines, and this Migraine Awareness Week, we’re encouraging all of our customers to understand the importance of looking after their eye health if they suffer from symptoms of migraines."

For more information contact Specsavers on 02920 713900 or log onto www.specsavers.co.uk.