Basilar Migraine

Many people have heard the term basilar migraine, but this is an older name for what is now officially called Migraine with brainstem aura. The updated term is used because we now understand that these symptoms come from the brainstem and surrounding areas; not specifically from the basilar artery, as was once believed. Like other types of migraine with aura, this form involves temporary neurological symptoms that typically develop gradually and resolve completely.

Migraine with brainstem aura can cause symptoms such as vertigo (a spinning sensation), difficulty speaking, ringing in the ears, double vision, unsteadiness, or even brief decreased awareness. These symptoms can feel alarming, but they are usually reversible and followed by a migraine headache, although sometimes the headache can be mild or even absent. Importantly, these episodes are not the same as a stroke, though new or unusual symptoms should always be evaluated promptly.

If you experience these types of symptoms with your migraines, it’s important to discuss them with your healthcare provider so we can ensure an accurate diagnosis and create a safe treatment plan. It can appear very concerning for these treatments came mimic a stroke or other life-threatening neurological conditions. The good news is that, like other migraine types, Migraine with brainstem aura is manageable with the right preventive strategies, trigger awareness, and individualized care. Click here to schedule a consultation today!

References:
1. Kaniecki R. Migraine with brainstem aura. Handb Clin Neurol. 2024;199:367-379.
2. Kaniecki RG. Basilar-type migraine. Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2009 Jun;13(3):217-20.