June is National Headache & Migraine Awareness Month
In June VeDA partners with the headache and migraine community to raise awareness about what it's like to live with these devastating illnesses, with a spotlight on vestibular migraine.
What is Vestibular Migraine?
Migraine, a disorder usually associated with headache, is extremely common and can cause several vestibular symptoms. Studies suggest that about 25 percent of migraineurs experience dizziness or vertigo during attacks. Vestibular migraine can occur with or without pain.
Common Symptoms
- Vertigo
- Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
- Phonophobia (sensitivity to sound)
- Head pain
- Nausea and/or vomiting
Common Triggers
- Some foods, such as aged cheese, smoked or processed meats, MSG, chocolate, alcohol, fermented foods, etc.
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Pressure changes
- Sleep disturbance
- Stress
Treatments
- Medication
- Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy
- Lifestyle changes
coping strategies
- Exercise, such as walking, yoga, and tai chi
- Diet & supplements, such as eating whole foods and taking magnesium
- Self-care, such as meditation, getting enough sleep, and massage
- Learn your triggers and manage them
Vestibular Migraine
ICU - "I See You" Podcast
In this episode of the ICU Podcast, we shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked world of vestibular migraine, a condition that affects more than half of all migraine sufferers at some point yet remains frequently misdiagnosed. Vestibular migraine can cause not only headaches but also vertigo, dizziness, imbalance, and sensory sensitivities—making it a formidable challenge for both patients and clinicians. Today, we’re joined by two remarkable guests: a dedicated volunteer with the World Migraine Summit (taking place March 11 – 18) who brings lived experience and advocacy insight, and Dr. Brian Ward, a neurotologist at Johns Hopkins Medicine. Together, we’ll explore how lifestyle management, medication, and other targeted therapies can help restore balance and hope to those navigating vestibular migraine.
Available wherever you get your podcasts.
Resources
VeDA Articles
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy
Vestibular Migraine Coping Strategies
Can Migraine Glasses Help You Feel Less Pain?
Research
Bridging Care Gaps in Vestibular Migraine - Interview with Drs. Habib Rizk and Monica Mallampalli
Partners
Shades for Migraine, organized by the Association of Migraine Disorders
National Migraine & Headache Awareness Month, organized by the Coalition for Headache & Migraine Patients (CHAMP)
