Vestibular Migraines: What You Need to Know

| Awareness

Vestibular Migraines: What You Need to Know

 

Have you ever experienced a migraine with vertigo-like symptoms, such as dizziness and nausea? If so, it's possible that you're dealing with vestibular migraines, and this article is here to provide all the essential information about them. Get ready to learn all about the causes, symptoms, treatments and more!

 

What is a Vestibular Migraine?


A vestibular migraine is a type of headache that is often accompanied by dizziness and a feeling of unsteadiness. The exact cause of vestibular migraines is unknown, but they are thought to be related to changes in the brainstem or blood vessels. Vestibular migraines are more common in women than men and usually begin in adulthood.

Most people with vestibular migraines experience attacks that last for a few minutes to a few hours. However, some people have chronic vestibular migraines, which means they have attacks that last for days or weeks. Vestibular migraines can be disabling, making it difficult to work or participate in daily activities.

There is no cure for vestibular migraines, but treatments are available to help relieve symptoms and prevent attacks. If you think you may be experiencing vestibular migraines, talk to your doctor about the best way to manage your condition.

 

Causes of Vestibular Migraines


There are many possible causes of vestibular migraines. Some people may have a genetic predisposition to the condition. Others may develop vestibular migraines as a result of another health condition, such as Meniere’s disease or an autoimmune disorder.

Certain medications can also trigger vestibular migraines. These include certain blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and even birth control pills. Stress and other emotional factors may also play a role in the development of vestibular migraines.

 

Symptoms of Vestibular Migraines


The most common symptom of a vestibular migraine is dizziness. This can be a feeling of lightheadedness or unsteadiness, as well as true spinning vertigo. Many people also experience visual symptoms during a vestibular migraine, including flashes of light, blind spots, or wavy vision. Some people have nausea and vomiting with vestibular migraines, and others may have trouble hearing. In general, vestibular migraines tend to cause more intense symptoms than regular migraines.

Symptoms usually last for a few minutes to a few hours, but they can occasionally last for days. Vestibular migraines can happen sporadically or they can occur in cycles. People with vestibular migraines may have one episode every few months or they may have several episodes in a week.

 

Diagnosing a Vestibular Migraine


Vestibular migraines are notoriously difficult to diagnose. Many doctors are not familiar with the condition, and even when they are, it can be difficult to distinguish from other conditions with similar symptoms, such as Meniere’s disease, labyrinthitis, and vestibular neuritis. There is no one test that can definitively diagnose a vestibular migraine, so the diagnosis is often made based on a combination of factors, including your symptoms, medical history, and family history.

If your doctor suspects you may have a vestibular migraine, they will likely start by asking about your symptoms and medical history. They will also likely perform a physical exam and order some tests to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms. Some of the tests that may be ordered include:

a. An MRI or CT scan of your head to rule out other conditions.

b. An ENG (electronystagmography) or VEMP (vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials) test to assess the function of your inner ear.

c. A hearing test.

d. Blood tests to rule out other conditions.

Once all of the testing has been completed, your doctor will review all of the information and make a determination as to whether or not you have a vestibular migraine. If they cannot definitively diagnose you with a vestibular migraine, they may diagnose you with idiopathic intracranial hypotension (IIH), which is

 

Treatments for Vestibular Migraines


There are a number of treatments available for vestibular migraines. Some people find relief with over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin. Others may require prescription medication to help manage the pain and symptoms associated with vestibular migraines.

Some people find relief by avoiding trigger foods and beverages. Common triggers include alcohol, caffeine, aged cheeses, chocolate, and processed meats. Keeping a food diary can help you identify your own personal triggers.

If you suffer from vestibular migraines, it’s important to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest. Exercising regularly can also help reduce the frequency and severity of attacks.

 

Conclusion


Vestibular migraines can be a challenging and complex condition to manage, but with the right knowledge and resources it is possible to take control of your symptoms. We hope this article has been helpful in teaching you more about vestibular migraines, their causes, diagnosis and treatment options. If you think that you may be experiencing symptoms associated with vestibular migraine, we recommend booking an appointment with a specialist doctor for in-person meeting.