Hi all,
I was diagnosed with this last year, after a really bad sinus infection, and feeling like I had fluid rolling around in my middle ear and wonky vision. Worth noting that Vestibular Migrane does not always give you a headache - Migraine actually means 'altered state' rather than headache. I was also prescribed nortriptyline, but after reading the info, I avoided it as its habit forming, and I did not want to take it if I could manage without. When I get an attack I can get very dizzy, altered vision, reduced vision, feeling sick and become
very sensitive to noise and light - and have to find a dark place and lie down. However I have also learnt to recognise the warning signs and now, when I think its approaching I immediately take 2 neurofen plus with some food (consultant recommended ibuprofen as it reduces the swelling which causes the problem), and that 9/10 keeps it under control. The other thing is to know your triggers, this website is quite helpful :
https://www.menieres.org.uk/information-and-support/symptoms-and-conditions/migraine-associated-vertigo. The top 5 most common triggers for vestibular migraine are;
1) Stress and anxiety.
2) Poor sleep – both too little, and too much!
3) Hunger and dehydration – missing meals and not taking enough water.
4) Dietary triggers – many common foods, especially caffeine.
5) Hormonal changes – i.e. menstruation, menopause and in teenagers.
For me 1 (the main cause) and 2 go hand in hand and can also drive 3, and then the migraine comes, often when I'm stressed out and eaten poorly - usually with junk to cheer myself up - vicious circle! Self management has been quite successful in my case, but its been a tricky road which has required a change in habits. I also take the following supplements which have really helped, not sure if its just one or a combination but works for me; Solgar V2000, Nu u Nutrition Vitamin B complex, Biocare Magnesium Malate, Turmeric Vitality capsules with black pepper and ginger and super Acai extract - all via Amazon. Expensive but helps
