Is vertigo or dizziness more prominent than your headache?
What are vestibular migraines?
Also known as migraine-related vertigo or migrainous vertigo, this is a type of headache disorder that causes vestibular or balance symptoms, with or without an actual headache. In fact, it is more common for people to not have a headache during a vestibular migraine attack. At Melbourne Headache and Concussion Group, this is something we’ve heard from many of our patients, many of whom don’t realise they’re actually experiencing a type of migraine.
The vestibular system is a sensory structure located in the inner ear that is responsible for keeping the body balanced, stabilising the head and body during movement, and maintaining posture. Any disruption to this system may result in a vestibular migraine.
Around 55% of migraine sufferers will also experience vestibular symptoms at some point.
Signs and symptoms of vestibular migraines
While vestibular migraine symptoms are the same as those of traditional migraine headaches, vertigo and dizziness will be more prominent. Symptoms may last for a few minutes to a few days, with some people not getting a break between attacks (known as chronic vestibular migraines).
Other symptoms that may be experienced include:
- Throbbing headache (usually on one side of the head)
- Vertigo (a spinning sensation) and/or dizziness
- Impaired balance
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Motion sensitivity
- Blurred vision or visual disturbances (such as a visual aura)
- Sensitivity to light and/or sound
- Perceived hearing loss and/or tinnitus
- Pressure or fullness in the ear
- Anxiety
Causes of vestibular migraines
While the exact cause of vestibular migraines is not completely understood, several theories are being explored. The prevailing theory is that they’re caused by abnormalities in the upper cervical spine, leading to a widening of the blood vessels in and around the brain (specifically near the area that triggers vertigo).
There are also certain risk factors to consider. Women are more likely to suffer from vestibular migraine than men, and there is some evidence to suggest that they run in families.
Other common migraine triggers include:
- Hormonal changes (such as menstruation)
- Stress
- Lack of sleep
- Certain foods or drinks
- Quick movements of the head or body
- Driving or riding in a vehicle
- Watching movement around you (such as on television)
Are your headaches accompanied by vertigo and other balance issues? We’re here to help!
How are vestibular migraines treated?
Treatment for vestibular migraines is typically similar to that for other types of headache. Your clinician will develop a personalised treatment plan that aims to target the cause of your condition. Some of the options that may be explored include:
- Watson Headache® Approach: With over 80% of migraines caused by dysfunction in the neck’s upper three vertebral joints, this manual therapy seeks to address the disorder to desensitise the brainstem.
- Vestibular Rehabilitation: This therapy aims to reduce a person’s motion sensitivity and address balance issues. The goal is to help the vestibular system adjust or find alternative pathways.
- Lifestyle Changes: Some people find that making changes to avoid their triggers reduces or even prevents vestibular migraines. This includes regular exercise, avoiding certain foods or drinks, eating regular meals, consistent sleep patterns, and losing weight.
- Supplements: There is evidence that taking supplements may help treat and prevent migraines. These include magnesium threonate, Vitamin B2, Coq10, Vitamin D, Omega 3, and Curcumin.
- Medications: Triptans, anti-inflammatories, and anti-nausea medications may help relieve symptoms during an attack. Preventive medications (such as antidepressants) may also be used. Medications that suppress the vestibular system should be minimised.
Your vestibular migraine questions answered
Why Melbourne Headache & Concussion Group?
Personalised Treatment
Our dedicated team is committed to developing personalised treatment plans that take into account the unique circumstances of our patients and help them reach their health goals.
Operated by Osteopaths
Come and visit us at our clinic, Williamstown Health + Lifestyle, where our experienced osteopaths will provide you with the tools to manage your headaches and ongoing symptoms.
Watson Headache® Approach
Our treatment is based on the Watson Headache® approach, which was developed by Dr Dean White and focuses on the relationship between the upper cervical spine and the brainstem.
Preparing for your consultation
During your initial consultation with Melbourne Headache & Concussion Group, your clinician will conduct a thorough assessment to identify potential factors that may be contributing to your vestibular migraines, including an examination of your cervical spine. They will also take down a complete health history and may refer you for specialist care or tests.
It may be helpful to keep a headache diary for the time leading up to your appointment. This should include the date and time of each migraine, its duration, intensity, possible triggers, and specific symptoms (including any that occurred before the migraine struck).
Providing relief for vestibular migraine sufferers
The unique presentation of vestibular migraines may make them difficult to diagnose– but don’t give up hope. The team at Melbourne Headache & Migraine Group has experience in treating these types of migraines and providing relief from uncomfortable vestibular symptoms. We take a holistic approach that seeks to get to the source of your condition and treats the whole person. To find out more, book an appointment at our Williamstown clinic today.