Is There a Connection Between Glaucoma and Migraines?

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Posted by: Missouri Eye Institute in Blog on September 3, 2025

Glaucoma and migraines are two distinct medical conditions that affect different parts of the body: glaucoma primarily affects the eyes, while migraines primarily affect the brain. However, recent studies show evidence that suffering from migraines may increase your risk of developing glaucoma.

While the link between glaucoma and migraines is not yet fully understood, the two conditions share common symptoms that can complicate diagnosis. Keep reading to learn more about the possible connection between glaucoma and migraines.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions characterized by damage to the optic nerve, typically due to increased intraocular pressure. As the condition progresses, it can cause permanent vision impairment and lead to blindness.

The most common type of glaucoma is open-angle glaucoma, which develops slowly, often without noticeable symptoms. A less common type, angle-closure glaucoma, can come on very suddenly and cause visual disturbances, eye pain, and nausea.

There is currently no known cure for glaucoma. Treatments for glaucoma aim to reduce intraocular pressure in order to protect the optic nerve and prevent vision loss.

What are Migraines?

Migraines are a type of severe headache that can cause intense, throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. Unlike a regular headache, migraines can be accompanied by secondary symptoms, which may include nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances known as auras.

Migraine attacks can last from several hours to several days and are believed to be triggered by stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, or lack of sleep. They are different from other headaches in that they involve complex neurological changes and can be debilitating.

Can Migraines Increase the Risk of Developing Glaucoma?

Several studies have indicated that people who experience migraines may have a slightly higher likelihood of developing glaucoma, particularly for individuals with open-angle glaucoma or normal-tension glaucoma.

Normal-tension glaucoma is a type of glaucoma in which optic nerve damage occurs even though intraocular pressure is within the normal range.

The increased risk for glaucoma posed by migraines is thought to be caused by vascular changes that occur during a migraine attack. Fluctuations in blood supply to the eyes can cause changes in intraocular pressure and contribute to optic nerve damage.

Are There Genetic Factors Shared By Glaucoma and Migraines?

Both glaucoma and migraines can run in families, suggesting that genetics may be an indicator for both conditions. Researchers have identified specific gene markers that may be associated with an increased risk for developing these conditions.

Other research has suggested that there may be other shared genetic factors, particularly in genes related to vascular function and neural signaling. These factors could help explain why some individuals are more prone to suffer from migraines and develop glaucoma.

What are the Similarities Between Glaucoma and Migraines?

Although they are separate conditions, glaucoma and migraines share some overlapping symptoms, which include:

Visual Disturbances

Both conditions can cause visual disturbances, including blurred vision, halos, flashes of light, and blind spots.

Eye Pain or Headache

While headache is the primary symptom of migraines, a sudden attack of angle-closure glaucoma can also cause migraine-like symptoms such as headache, eye pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Light Sensitivity

Light sensitivity is a common symptom of migraines and can be a symptom of glaucoma, particularly during the onset of angle-closure glaucoma.

In addition to shared symptoms, glaucoma and migraines are similar in that they are both chronic conditions that require long-term management. Early diagnosis and treatment of both these conditions can help control symptoms and prevent further progression.

Emerging evidence suggests that there is a potential link between glaucoma and migraines. While that link is not yet definitive, individuals who suffer from migraines, especially those who experience visual symptoms, should schedule regular eye exams to ensure early diagnosis of glaucoma or other eye conditions.

Are you experiencing symptoms of migraines or glaucoma? Schedule an appointment at Missouri Eye Institute in Springfield, MO, today!