Seeing Sparks: Understanding Visual Migraines

Seeing Sparks: Understanding Visual Migraines

Author: Dr. Marc R Grossman, OD, L.Ac. November 28, 2025 Duration: 8:57

When your vision fills with zigzags, flickers, or a growing blind spot, it can feel alarming. Dr. Marc Grossman describes visual migraines and the difference between ophthalmic visual migraines and retinal migraines. What is happening in the brain and retina? Why does blood flow matter? Which symptoms are an emergency? 

For prevention, we share complementary approaches that support circulation and calm the nervous system: chiropractic or osteopathic care for neck and cranial tension, craniosacral therapy, and acupuncture patterns often linked to liver and kidney meridians.

Listen to this episode. If it helped you see your symptoms more clearly, then please subscribe to the show, share it with someone who needs it, and leave a quick review to help others find these tools.


In a world where eye health is often reduced to a prescription, Natural Eye Care with Dr. Marc Grossman, Holistic Optometrist offers a deeper, more connected perspective. Dr. Marc Grossman brings over four decades of clinical experience as both an optometrist and acupuncturist to each conversation, challenging the notion that declining vision is an inevitable part of aging. This podcast explores how the health of our eyes is intimately tied to our overall well-being, moving beyond standard treatments to discuss the foundational roles of nutrition, specific lifestyle choices, and holistic practices. You'll hear detailed discussions on managing common vision problems and preventing eye diseases, with insights grounded in both scientific research and real patient outcomes. Dr. Grossman’s approach is practical and empowering, dedicated to providing listeners with actionable knowledge that supports lasting eye health. Tune in for a thoughtful exploration of how we can proactively care for our vision through natural means, making this podcast a unique resource for anyone interested in the genuine connection between how we live and how we see.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 182

Natural Eye Care with Dr. Marc Grossman, Holistic Optometrist
Podcast Episodes
Nutrition That Protects Vision And Memory [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:15
We connect the dots between brain health and vision, showing how diet, the gut–brain axis, and key nutrients protect memory and eyesight. We share evidence on Mediterranean and MIND diets, spotlight DHA, B vitamins, curc…
Why Testing Your Vitamin D Can Safeguard Your Sight [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 6:43
We explain why vitamin D3 matters for eye health, where research points across dry eye, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts, and how to make smart, test-guided choices. We share target int…
Natural Ways To Help Prevent And Manage Cataracts [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:11
We explore why cataracts form, what your lens needs to stay clear, and how diet, supplements, and habits can reduce risk and improve outcomes before and after cataract surgery. We also cover dry eye prevention around cat…
How Hyaluronic Acid Protects Your Vision And Eases Dry Eye [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 6:16
Dry, gritty, or burning eyes don’t have to be your “new normal.” We take a deep, practical look at hyaluronic acid—what it is, why your eyes love it, and how to use it—to bring real-world relief for dryness, irritation,…
A Gentle Lid Scrub for Dry Eye, Blepharitis and Lid Hygiene [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:01
Anyone who suffers from blepharitis or dry eye can benefit from a twice-daily lid cleaning. Dr. Marc Grossman explains why clean eyelids are important to eye health. He describes the ingredients in LidHygenix Foam Eyelid…
Cataracts and Cataract Surgery: Holistic Approaches [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:01
Cloudy vision and glare don’t have to dictate your life—Dr. Marc Grossman, integrative optometrist and acupuncturist, reveals practical ways to understand and manage cataracts, from early symptoms to smart surgery decisi…
How Your Emotions and Microbiome Affect Longevity and Eyesight [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 6:57
In this episode, Dr. Marc Grossman connects longevity to eye health by linking emotions, circulation, and the gut–brain–eye axis. He shares practical steps to protect vision as you age. Anger management, the liver meridi…