The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Vestibular Migraine

A migraine subtype presenting with vertigo attacks.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Vestibular Migraine?

Vestibular migraine is a migraine subtype that presents with recurrent vertigo attacks in patients with a history of migraine. Attacks may occur with or without headache and last from minutes to hours.

In its pathophysiology, hyperexcitability of the brainstem and vestibular pathways plays a role. Patients complain of motion-triggered spinning, swaying, and imbalance; nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia frequently accompany attacks.

Diagnosis is based on clinical criteria; ruling out other vestibular disorders is important. Treatment is built on principles of migraine management and lifestyle modifications.

Symptoms

Recurrent vertigo attacks
Sense of swaying and imbalance
Movement-triggered vertigo
Headache (not always present)
Nausea and vomiting
Light and sound sensitivity
Ear fullness (sometimes)

Risk Factors

Migraine history
Family history of migraine
Female gender
Menstrual cycle
Stress and sleep deprivation
Certain foods (tyramine, caffeine, chocolate)
Visual stimuli and bright lights

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If you have recurrent vertigo attacks
  • First-time severe vertigo
  • Neurological signs accompany the attack
  • Hearing loss has been added
  • Imbalance is severe enough to risk falling

Treatment Methods

01
Migraine preventive medications (beta-blocker, calcium channel blocker, antiepileptic)
02
Acute attack treatment (triptans, antiemetics)
03
Identifying and avoiding triggers
04
Vestibular rehabilitation
05
Regular sleep and nutrition
06
Stress management

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Nöroloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Headache and Migraine

Nöroloji

What you need to know about headache types, migraine attacks, and triggering factors.

Low Back Pain

Nöroloji

Learn about the most common causes of low back pain, risk factors, and appropriate treatment approaches.

Neck Pain and Cervical Disc Herniation

Nöroloji

Learn about the symptoms and treatment options for cervical disc herniation and problems in the neck region.

Epilepsy

Nöroloji

Accurate information about epilepsy, types of seizures, and recommendations for patients and families.

Parkinson Disease

Nöroloji

Parkinson disease is caused by progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and alpha-synuclein accumulation; well-timed therapy substantially improves function and quality of life.

Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia

Nöroloji

Information about early signs, diagnosis, and the care process for Alzheimer's and other types of dementia.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Nöroloji

What is multiple sclerosis, who is at risk, and which treatments are applied?

Stroke

Nöroloji

What is stroke, what are the FAST signs, and why is emergency intervention critical?

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.