Vestibular Migraines

By: Tavishi Gupta

Vestibular migraines might sound like a complicated term, but it’s actually a condition that affects a lot of people. If you or someone you know experiences dizziness or feels off balance along with headaches, it could be due to vestibular migraines.

What Are Vestibular Migraines?

A vestibular migraine is a type of migraine that primarily affects your sense of balance. While regular migraines are known for causing severe headaches, vestibular migraines can make you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or as if the room is spinning, even if you don’t have a headache at the time. This can make it hard to stand, walk, or even focus.

How Do Vestibular Migraines Affect You?

The main symptoms of vestibular migraines are related to your balance and coordination. Here's what you might feel:

1. Dizziness: You might feel unsteady, like you’re on a boat, or have episodes of intense spinning (vertigo).

2. Balance Problems: It can be difficult to stand or walk straight. You might feel like you’re going to fall over.

3. Sensitivity to Light and Sound: Bright lights and loud noises might make your symptoms worse, similar to regular migraines.

4. Nausea: The dizziness can make you feel sick to your stomach or even cause vomiting.

5. Headaches: While not always present, some people do experience headaches along with the dizziness.

6. Feeling Disconnected: Some people describe a sensation of feeling “out of it” or disconnected from their surroundings.

   
   

Who Can Get Vestibular Migraines?

Vestibular migraines can affect anyone, but they are more common in people who have a history of regular migraines. Women are also more likely to experience vestibular migraines than men. They often start in adulthood, but they can happen at any age.

What Causes Vestibular Migraines?

Doctors aren’t entirely sure what causes vestibular migraines, but they believe it’s related to changes in the brain’s way of processing signals related to balance and movement. Certain triggers can bring on a vestibular migraine, such as:

• Stress: High levels of stress or anxiety.

• Diet: Certain foods, like chocolate, cheese, or caffeine, can trigger an attack.

• Lack of Sleep: Not getting enough rest.

• Hormonal Changes: Women might experience them more around their menstrual cycle.

• Environment: Bright lights, loud noises, or strong smells.

How Are Vestibular Migraines Treated?

While vestibular migraines can be disruptive, there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms:

• Medications: Doctors might prescribe medications to prevent migraines or to help relieve symptoms during an attack.

• Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding known triggers, like certain foods or stress, can reduce the frequency of migraines.

• Vestibular Rehabilitation: Physical therapy focused on balance can help your body adjust and reduce dizziness.

• Healthy Habits: Regular sleep, exercise, and a balanced diet can also play a big role in managing migraines.

• Relaxation Techniques: Stress management through relaxation exercises like yoga or meditation can be beneficial.

How Can You Help Someone with Vestibular Migraines?

If someone you know has vestibular migraines, there are ways to support them:

• Be Understanding: Realize that they may suddenly feel dizzy or unsteady and need to sit or lie down.

• Create a Calm Environment: Minimize bright lights and loud noises when they’re having an episode.

• Encourage Rest: Make sure they have a quiet, comfortable place to relax.

• Offer Assistance: Help them with tasks that might be difficult when they’re dizzy, like walking or getting up.

  
  

5 Random Facts About Vestibular Migraines

1. Vestibular migraines affect about 1% of the population, but they are often underdiagnosed.

2. People with a family history of migraines are more likely to develop vestibular migraines.

3. Vestibular migraines can occur with or without a headache, making them different from typical migraines.

4. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy, which is like physical therapy for your balance, can help reduce dizziness and improve stability.

5. Triggers for vestibular migraines can vary widely from person to person, making it important to identify and avoid your personal triggers.