Are these vestibular compensation headaches?
I haven’t been sleeping very well lately, and I’ve been under a great deal of stress (both work stress and just stressing about finances, the usual every day life kind of stuff). And in the past week, I’ve experienced something I’ve never experienced before — migraines.
I didn’t quite know what it was at first, just that my head hurt to the point where it felt like it was going to explode (it didn’t, in case you’re wondering). The onset of these headaches is quite sudden, and they tend to last for anywhere from an hour to a few hours.
I also often feel nauseous and off-balance (which makes me wonder if this has something to do with my busted vestibular system). I don’t know anything at all about migraines (since I never experienced them before), so I think I’ll have to read up on the potential causes.
I also wonder if it has to do with VRT — could the VRT exercises cause my brain to start compensating more and thus lead to headaches as my brain gets overloaded with too much to do?
6 Comments, Comment or Ping
Dizzy Dame
I’ve had migraine issues associated with my vertigo and would imagine anything doing with your neck, including manipulations could potentially cause migraines.
I’d mention it to the physical therapist and see what they say.
Aug 30th, 2008
tonia
I’m not sure if the VRT itself could lead to a headache…it’s possible I suppose, but the stress definately could. I’ve had headaches, both migraine and tension, and I’ve noticed that when I have a headache, it makes me a bit more off balance. Just seems to slightly increase my symptoms overall.
You may definately want to mention it to a doctor since you’ve never had migraines before though.
By the way, I’ve started my VRT and it is increasing my symptoms…UGH! But I’m doing my best to stick with it.
Take care.
Sep 1st, 2008
tonia
Oh, I forgot to mention….you are right about finally having someone understand. It was so great to talk to the physical therapist and have her understand what I meant when describing my symptoms, etc.
Sep 1st, 2008
Vertigo Guy
I’m definitely going to mention this to the therapist and see what they have to say — I had an appointment recently, but we got onto other topics and I forgot to mention it.
Tonia — glad to hear that you started VRT. I know it sucks to have your symptoms increased, but hey, if it can get rid of your symptoms in the long term I certainly think it’s worth it.
I’m also glad to hear that your therapist understands where you’re coming from. I don’t know if you feel the same way, but I actually felt the physiotherapist was far more understanding than any doctor I saw. Strange how that is.
Sep 2nd, 2008
allison
http://www.dizziness-and-balance.com/disorders/central/migraine/mav.html
Oct 22nd, 2008
Vertigo Guy
MAV had occurred to me as a possible reason for headaches — but the headaches don’t seem to be of migraine intensity, nor do any of the other symptoms seem to fit…
Oct 28th, 2008
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