Attacks of dizziness during or after migraine

Vestibular migraine causes recurring attacks of spinning dizziness, a sensation of movement or strong sensitivity to head movement and busy visual scenes in someone with migraine features. Headache does not have to be present during the dizziness attack.

• An attack may last minutes to hours and sometimes continue for up to three days.
• Nausea, unsteady walking, sensitivity to light, sound or movement, and a one-sided throbbing headache may occur.
• Diagnosis is based on the pattern, migraine history and ruling out other balance or neurological causes.
• A sudden first severe attack with double vision, speech problems, loss of strength, loss of sensation or inability to stand may be a stroke: call Ambulance 912.
• During a familiar attack, safety, gentle movement, enough fluids and the agreed migraine or anti-sickness medicine can help.
• Regular sleep, meals, physical activity and a diary can help identify triggers and medication overuse.
• For frequent or disabling attacks, a doctor may discuss preventive migraine medicines and vestibular rehabilitation.
• Keeping the head still for a long time or constantly avoiding movement can actually slow recovery of the balance system.