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Migraine and sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
Archives of Otolaryngology--Head & Neck Surgery
|March 1, 1987
Summary
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss can be an unusual complication of migraine headaches, potentially caused by temporary blood vessel constriction in the inner ear. Treatments like ergot alkaloids and oxygen inhalations may help restore hearing.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Migraine headaches are a common neurological disorder with complex pathophysiology.
- Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is a significant auditory impairment, typically idiopathic.
Observation:
- A 62-year-old woman presented with recurrent episodes of SSNHL coinciding with migraine attacks.
- This association suggests a potential link between migraine and cochlear vascular events.
Findings:
- The proposed mechanism involves reversible vasoconstriction of cochlear blood vessels, triggered by migraine.
- The patient experienced hearing improvement following ergot alkaloid administration, CO2/O2 inhalations, and stellate ganglion blocks.
Implications:
- This case highlights an unusual migraine complication and suggests potential therapeutic targets.
- Further research is needed to confirm the causal link and the efficacy of these treatments for migraine-associated SSNHL.