Vestibular Migraine & Specialized Headache Care
Migraine is more than just a severe headache. For millions of individuals, it is a complex neurological condition that also impacts the balance system, causing unsteadiness, rocking sensations, motion sensitivity, and vertigo.
At The Vertigo Clinic in JP Nagar, Bengaluru, our neuro-otology evaluations are dedicated to uncovering whether your recurrent dizziness, brain fog, or neck discomfort is linked to underlying vestibular migraine mechanisms.
What is Vestibular Migraine (Migraine-Associated Vertigo)?
Vestibular Migraine (also known as Migraine-Associated Vertigo or MAV) occurs when the neural pathways that process balance signals become overly sensitive due to migraine-related changes in the brain.
Did you know? An actual headache does not have to occur during every episode. Many individuals experience intense motion intolerance, unsteadiness, or spinning sensations with minimal or even zero head pain.
Recognizing Symptoms & Balance Signs
Headache Symptoms
- Throbbing or pulsating pain, often on one side
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia)
- Nausea or digestive discomfort during attacks
- Stiff neck and shoulder tension
Balance & Vestibular Symptoms
- Spontaneous spinning sensations (vertigo)
- Sensation of swaying, rocking, or floating
- Heightened sensitivity to busy patterns, screens, or grocery aisles
- Discomfort when turning the head quickly
Common Migraine Triggers
While the precise mechanisms vary per individual, migraine episodes are often influenced by physiological and environmental factors, including:
- Irregular or disrupted sleep schedules
- Prolonged screen exposure & visual strain
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Dietary triggers (skipped meals, excess caffeine)
- Weather, barometric, or environmental shifts
- Physical and mental fatigue
Our Evidence-Based Management Approach
Because vestibular migraine can closely mimic inner ear disorders like BPPV or Meniere's disease, an accurate diagnostic roadmap is essential. Management at The Vertigo Clinic typically combines:
- Specialist Neuro-Otological Evaluation: In-depth bedside assessment by Dr. Tejaswini Patel (Fellowship trained in Neuro-Otology, CMC Vellore) to rule out structural inner ear pathology.
- Preventative & Acute Medical Therapy: Tailored pharmacological regimens to reduce the intensity and frequency of flare-ups.
- Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT): Specialized balance exercises to desensitize visual motion sensitivity and re-train spatial orientation.
- Trigger Modification Counseling: Personalized routines addressing sleep, hydration, and nutritional consistency.
Watch: Dr. Tejaswini Patel on Managing Vertigo & Migraine
Consult Our Specialist
Schedule an in-person evaluation in JP Nagar 7th Phase or book an online video consultation from home.
The Vertigo Clinic
Kothanur Main Road, Opp. Navodaya Nagar Bus Stop, JP Nagar 7th Phase, Bengaluru 560078