Vestibular migraine
is a varient of migraine with aura where dizziness/vertigo and balance problems are present. Those experiencing vestibular migraine may feel sudden episodes of vertigo, where they sense that they or their surroundings are spinning, even without head pain. These episodes can last anywhere from minutes to hours, sometimes even days. Along with vertigo, individuals may also experience nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and difficulties with concentration, making everyday tasks challenging.
Vestibular migraine is often misdiagnosed as other vertigo-related conditions, but Dr. Cohen has extensive experience in accurately diagnosing and treating this condition. Having trained under leading experts in vestibular migraine, Dr. Cohen provides comprehensive care that includes lifestyle adjustments, medications, procedures, and supplements. With a strong background in primary care, Dr. Cohen also focuses on optimizing key factors like diet, sleep, anxiety, and mood, all of which can significantly affect the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
Vestibular migraine frequently asked questions
What causes vestibular migraines?
Vestibular migraines are thought to be caused by abnormal brain activity affecting the pathways that control balance and sensory processing. Triggers can include stress, certain foods, hormonal changes, lack of sleep, or sensory stimuli such as bright lights or motion.
How is vestibular migraine diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually based on your medical history and symptom patterns, while also ruling out other potential causes of dizziness or vertigo. Dr. Cohen begins by evaluating whether your symptoms may be due to other balance disorders or neurological conditions.
How is vestibular migraine treated?
Dr. Cohen employs a combination of lifestyle changes, trigger management, and medications. Vestibular rehabilitation (physical therapy for balance) can help some patients. Certain medication classes have greater evidence for vestibular symptoms than other migraine-associated symptoms
Can vestibular migraine be prevented?
Of course! In addition identifying and avoiding triggers, Dr. Cohen will work with you to adjust your diet, sleep, and other lifestyle changes to reduce the frequency of attacks. Preventive medication can also be used to further reduce migraine attack frequency.
Dr. Cohen is also skilled in vestibular migraine procedures, including:
Botox injections
Facial nerve blocks (trigeminal nerve)
Occipital nerve blocks
Trigger point injections
Sphenopalatine ganglion blocks
Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) monoclonal antibody injections
Neuromodulation
Ketamine (intra-nasal and infusion)
Lidocaine infusion
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