When a person suffers dizziness or vertigo, often it is caused by a problem with the vestibular system. It’s important to see a vestibular specialist and have the appropriate testing performed when determining the cause, because there are several types of vestibular problems that could be at the root of the issue, and some diagnoses have similar symptoms that are similar to others.
Two diagnoses that can have overlapping symptoms are vestibular migraines and Meniere’s disease. Symptoms often occur in episodes that can last up to hours at a time.
Vestibular Migraines
Vestibular migraines are a type of migraine that affects the vestibular pathways in the brain.
Common symptoms of vestibular migraines include:
- Dizziness
- Vertigo
- Imbalance
- Ringing in the ears
- Headache
- Nausea
- Sensitivity to light, motion, or sound
- Balance difficulties
- Neck pain
- Mental fogginess
- Anxiety
Meniere’s Disease
Meniere’s disease is very rare. It is caused an excess of fluid called endolymph in inner ear.
Common symptoms of Meniere’s attacks include:
- Dizziness
- Vertigo
- Imbalance
- Asymmetrical hearing loss that comes and goes, eventually progressing to permanent hearing loss.
- Ringing in the ears
- Headache
- Nausea
- A full feeling or pressure in the ear
- Anxiety
The treatments for each are different, so it’s important to see an expert who can help determine the cause of your symptoms and what the appropriate treatment will be. At the National Dizzy & Balance Center, we have a comprehensive vestibular program with audiologists, a medical department and vestibular therapists who work as a team to provide detailed testing and treatment. Go to www.stopdizziness.com to find out more.