Top Vestibular Migraine Symptoms
Top Vestibular Migraine Symptoms

Top Vestibular migraine symptoms are dizziness or vertigo, along with the typical migraine symptoms such as headache, sensitivity to light and sound, and nausea. The dizziness or vertigo can be quite severe, and may last for several hours or even days.

Top Vestibular Migraine Symptoms Explained

Vertigo or dizziness

This is the most common symptom of vestibular migraine. It is usually caused by a disturbance in the inner ear or the vestibular system, which regulates balance. To manage vertigo, you can try vestibular rehabilitation exercises, which can help strengthen the vestibular system and improve balance. Medications such as anti-nausea drugs, anti-dizziness drugs, or migraine medications may also be prescribed.

Headache

It can range from mild to severe. To manage headache, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be helpful. Prescription migraine medications such as triptans or ergotamines may also be prescribed. It is important to avoid triggers such as stress, certain foods, and lack of sleep.

Nausea and vomiting

The vestibular system is located in the inner ear and sends signals to the brain about the body’s position and movement. In vestibular migraine, the signals from the vestibular system can become disrupted, leading to feelings of dizziness and nausea.

Also the brainstem is involved in regulating many functions in the body, including nausea and vomiting. In vestibular migraine, the brainstem can become activated, leading to nausea as a symptom.

To manage nausea and vomiting, anti-nausea medications such as ondansetron or metoclopramide may be prescribed. Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water or electrolyte drinks, can also help prevent dehydration.

Sensitivity to light and sound

The trigeminal nerve is a major sensory nerve in the head and is involved in pain sensation, including migraines. When the trigeminal nerve is activated, it can cause pain, sensitivity, and other symptoms in the head and face, including sensitivity to light and sound.

Many people with vestibular migraine experience sensitivity to light and sound, which can exacerbate other symptoms. To manage sensitivity to light and sound, it may be helpful to wear sunglasses or earplugs in bright or noisy environments. Avoiding bright lights and loud noises as much as possible can also help.

Fatigue

Caused mainly by the dizziness, pain and discomfort associated with migraine can be physically exhausting, leading to feelings of fatigue. The body’s response to dizziness and pain can also trigger a stress response, can disrupt sleep, can cause changes in brain chemistry and activity and is believed to involve changes in the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which can affect energy levels and mood. To manage fatigue, it is important to get adequate rest and avoid overexertion. It may also be helpful to practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.

Visual disturbances

Like flashing lights, zigzag patterns, or blind spots. These visual disturbances may be temporary and resolve on their own. It is important to avoid triggers such as bright lights and computer screens.

Tinnitus

Ringing in the ears, is another symptom that some people with vestibular migraine experience. To manage tinnitus, it may be helpful to avoid loud noises and reduce stress. In some cases, medications such as tricyclic antidepressants or anticonvulsants may be prescribed.

Brain fog

It is a term used to describe a group of symptoms that affect a person’s ability to think clearly, concentrate, and remember things. In vestibular migraine, brain fog may be caused by a disruption in the brain’s ability to process information related to balance and spatial orientation. This disruption can lead to confusion, difficulty concentrating, and forgetfulness.

Triggers

Vestibular migraine symptoms can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, certain foods, changes in sleep patterns, and exposure to bright light or loud noise. Hormonal changes in women may also play a role in triggering vestibular migraine attacks.

If you are experiencing symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. A healthcare professional can help determine the best course of treatment for your specific symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment may include medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-nausea medication, and vestibular suppressants. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy may also be helpful for managing symptoms of vertigo and imbalance. In addition, lifestyle changes such as avoiding triggers, regular exercise and stress management can also help prevent and manage vestibular migraine attacks.

It is also important to note that vestibular migraine can be difficult to diagnose and it may take time to find the right treatment plan. However, with the right support and treatment, individuals with vestibular migraine can manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Words of motivation

It is important to remember that there are ways to cope with migraine and that it is possible to lead a fulfilling life despite the condition.

One way to stay motivated is to educate yourself about migraine and its management. This can include learning about the different types of migraine, triggers, and treatment options. By understanding the condition, you can take an active role in managing your symptoms and finding ways to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks.

Another way to stay motivated is to set realistic goals for yourself. This can include setting goals for reducing the number of migraine attacks, managing symptoms, or improving overall quality of life. By setting small, achievable goals, you can work towards a larger goal of managing your migraine.

It’s also important to take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Additionally, stress management techniques such as meditation and yoga can also be helpful.

It’s also important to have a support system in place. This can include friends and family, a support group, or a therapist who can provide emotional support and encouragement.

Finally, it’s important to remember that managing migraine is a journey and it’s important to be patient with yourself. It’s important to acknowledge that there will be setbacks and obstacles, but it’s important to keep moving forward and stay positive.

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By foggy.brain

Diagnosed with vestibular migraine in 2016, I was totally desperate thinking it was not worth living until I found a solution that has helped me live a normal life!