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Vestibular disorders in patients with migraine
1Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Semmelweis University Medical School, Budapest, Hungary.
Summary
Migraine headaches often cause vestibular symptoms. Electronystagmography revealed abnormal vestibular function during attacks, which normalized when the migraine headache resolved.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Vestibular symptoms are common in migraine patients.
- Migraine headaches can present with neurological signs, including vestibular abnormalities.
- Vestibular migraine is distinct from basilar migraine, which can mimic transient brainstem ischemia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate vestibular dysfunction in patients with migraine headaches.
- To differentiate vestibular migraine from other migraine subtypes.
- To assess the utility of electronystagmography in diagnosing vestibular dysfunction associated with migraine.
Main Methods:
- Electronystagmography (ENG) was employed to assess vestibular function.
- Caloric testing and spontaneous nystagmus were evaluated.
- Vestibular function was assessed during migraine attacks and headache-free periods.
Main Results:
- Patients frequently exhibited abnormal caloric test responses, particularly directional preponderance.
- Most patients displayed spontaneous nystagmus during migraine attacks.
- Vestibular function tests were largely normal during headache-free periods, suggesting transient hypersensitivity.
Conclusions:
- Migraine headaches are associated with significant vestibular dysfunction, likely due to labyrinth hypersensitivity during attacks.
- Electronystagmography is a valuable tool for detecting vestibular abnormalities in migraine patients.
- Pyracetam showed high success in treating patients, diazepam was used for basilar migraine, and flunarizine for vestibular migraine prevention.