People often get confused with vertigo and migraine and think both are the same. However, these are two different conditions with many overlapping symptoms. Consultation with a medical practitioner will help diagnose the right condition. This is essential to decide on the right treatment plan.
What is the Difference Between Vestibular Migraine and Vertigo?
Vertigo and migraine share similar symptoms, but they are not the same. By understanding each condition in detail, we can identify the main differences.
Vertigo: Vertigo is a sensation that causes you to feel as if you are spinning around in place or about to fall. A problem with either your inner ear or your brain causes it. When you get it, you may feel like the entire room revolves. Feeling the head spinning and dizzy is uncomfortable and impairs your ability to walk normally. You may also experience ear problems such as hearing loss or ringing ears.
Inner ear infections, blows to the head, or certain ear conditions can cause vertigo. Symptoms like head spinning and ringing in ears last from seconds to an hour or more. They get worse when you move your head from side to side.
Vestibular Migraine: Although vestibular migraines bring about dizziness and imbalance, much like vertigo, they are associated with severe headaches. Other issues, such as photophobia, phonophobia, and blurred vision, usually accompany migraine. Stress, sleep deprivation, hormonal changes, or some foods may provoke these headaches.
Migraine vs. Vertigo: Although the exact cause of migraines is unknown, abnormal brain activity that momentarily disrupts the brain's blood vessels, chemicals, and nerve signals is thought to be the reason. Vertigo mainly results from issues with the inner part of the ear. Migraines primarily involve headaches and associated symptoms; vertigo is associated with imbalance and abnormal spatial orientation. Migraine can cause symptoms similar to those of vertigo but alongside other complexities like vomiting, light sensitivity, and throbbing sensation.
Conclusion
Vestibular migraines and vertigo are often confused with each other, but there are critical differences between the two. Proper treatment requires accurate diagnosis. A suitable health insurance policy can cover the treatment costs. If you are still confused as to what you are going through, migraine or vertigo, seek assistance from qualified doctors.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.