Vestibular Migraine

What is it?
A type of migraine that can affect the ears, vision, and balance with or without a headache.  The cause of Vestibular Migraines is not completely understood but there are suggestions it could involve the peripheral and/ or central vestibular systems.

Symptoms?

Dizziness/vertigo, imbalance, nausea, vomiting, headaches and or visual auras that can last for 5minutes to 72 hours. Symptoms can be provoked/exacerbated by head movements, visually overwhelming images/environments (driving over bridges, scrolling on phone, television, shopping centres/ aisles, computer) and/ or bright lights/loud noises.

How is it diagnosed? By exclusion from a neurologist.

What are the treatment options?

• Medication e.g. migraine preventatives/ acute symptom control - discuss with your GP or pharmacist

• Targeting the cervical spine if there is a cervicogenic component

• Vestibular Rehabilitation- habituation exercises specific to your sensitivities.

• Virtual Reality

• Establishing a regular home exercise program to enable you to return to your activities