A vestibular migraine is a type of migraine that primarily affects balance and coordination rather than causing severe head pain. It is characterised by episodes of dizziness, vertigo, and disorientation, often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light or sound. While some people with vestibular migraines experience headaches, many do not, making diagnosis challenging. Understanding the symptoms, triggers, and treatment options can help those affected manage their condition more effectively.
What Is a Vestibular Migraine?
A vestibular migraine is a neurological condition that impacts the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and spatial awareness. Unlike typical migraines, where head pain is the dominant symptom, vestibular migraines primarily cause episodes of vertigo or dizziness, which can last from a few minutes to several hours.
Vestibular migraines can be episodic or chronic. Some people experience occasional attacks, while others may have frequent and prolonged episodes that significantly impact daily life.
Symptoms of a Vestibular Migraine
Vestibular migraines can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Dizziness or vertigo (a spinning sensation, even when still)
- Loss of balance or unsteadiness
- Motion sensitivity (discomfort triggered by movement, such as driving or turning the head)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity to light, sound, or strong smells
- Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
- Head pressure or mild headache (though not always present)
These symptoms may last anywhere from a few minutes to several days. In some cases, attacks occur without any noticeable headache, making diagnosis more difficult.
Causes and Triggers of Vestibular Migraines
Vestibular migraines are believed to result from abnormal brain activity affecting the vestibular system, though the exact cause is not fully understood. Like other migraines, they are often triggered by certain factors, including:
- Stress and anxiety
- Hormonal fluctuations (such as during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause)
- Lack of sleep or changes in sleep patterns
- Dehydration and low blood sugar levels
- Certain foods (such as caffeine, chocolate, processed meats, and artificial sweeteners)
- Bright lights, loud noises, or strong smells*l
- Weather changes or air pressure fluctuations
Identifying and avoiding personal triggers can help reduce the frequency of vestibular migraine attacks.
Diagnosis
Since vestibular migraines do not always cause headaches, they can be misdiagnosed as inner ear disorders such as Ménière’s disease or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). A doctor may perform:
- A neurological examination to assess balance and coordination
- Hearing and vestibular function tests to rule out ear-related conditions
- MRI or CT scans if necessary to rule out other neurological disorders
Treatment and Management of Vestibular Migraines
Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
- Stay hydrated and eat regular meals
- Reduce stress through relaxation techniques (meditation, yoga, deep breathing)
- Limit exposure to bright lights and loud noises
Medications
For acute attacks, doctors may prescribe:
- Triptans(commonly used for migraines)
- Anti-nausea medications
- Vestibular suppressants
For prevention, long-term medications may include:
- Beta-blockers
- Calcium channel blockers
- Anti-seizure medications
- CGRP inhibitors (a newer class of migraine medications)
When to Seek Medical Attention
If symptoms become frequent, severe, or significantly impact daily life, consulting a doctor is essential. Additionally, sudden dizziness with weakness, numbness, or slurred speech may indicate a stroke and require emergency medical attention.
Conclusion
Vestibular migraines can be debilitating, but with proper management, many people can reduce their frequency and severity. By understanding triggers, making lifestyle changes, and using appropriate treatments, those affected can regain control over their condition and improve their quality of life. If you suspect you have vestibular migraines, seeking medical advice can help determine the best course of action for diagnosis and treatment.
This blog is not written by a medical professionals and should not be considered to be medical advice nor should replace medical advice from a trained professional. Please seek advice from a medical professional should you be suffering from migraines or any other medical conditions.