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Published on: June 2, 2014
Migraine and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: an outcome study of 476 patients
1Neurotology and Balance Center, Institute of Neurologic Sciences, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey. cuneri@superonline.com
Abstract:
To investigate whether migraine is more common in patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) than in the general population, the author conducted a retrospective study of 476 patients with BPPV seen over 12 years at a tertiary referral center. Records of patients with a confirmed diagnosis of BPPV followed for 1 to 7 years were reviewed. The typical history of BPPV and the characteristic torsional positional nystagmus were identified in all patients. A modified Epley maneuver was performed for all patients with posterior semicircular canal BPPV, with a 98% success rate. The survey consisted of detailed patient questionnaires and vestibular tests. Migraine and motion sickness were three times more common in patients with BPPV than in the general population. A family history of migraine (58.4%) and vertigo (44.9%) was also more common in patients than in a control group.
Insights
Migraine and motion sickness are significantly more prevalent in individuals diagnosed with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). This study found these conditions to be three times more common in BPPV patients compared to the general population.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Vestibular Disorders
Background:
- Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a common vestibular disorder.
- The relationship between BPPV and other neurological conditions like migraine is not fully understood.
- Previous research suggests potential links between vestibular dysfunction and headache disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if migraine is more prevalent in patients with BPPV.
- To assess the incidence of motion sickness and family history of migraine/vertigo in BPPV patients.
- To compare these incidences to the general population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 476 patients diagnosed with BPPV over 12 years.
- Review of patient records, including diagnosis confirmation and follow-up duration (1-7 years).
- Utilized detailed patient questionnaires and vestibular tests; a modified Epley maneuver was performed for posterior canal BPPV.
Main Results:
- Migraine and motion sickness were found to be three times more common in patients with BPPV.
- A family history of migraine (58.4%) and vertigo (44.9%) was also significantly higher in the BPPV cohort compared to controls.
- The modified Epley maneuver demonstrated a 98% success rate in treating posterior semicircular canal BPPV.
Conclusions:
- Patients with BPPV have a higher prevalence of migraine and motion sickness.
- A positive family history for migraine and vertigo is more common in individuals with BPPV.
- These findings suggest an association between BPPV and migraine, warranting further investigation into underlying mechanisms.
