Living with vestibular migraine (VM) for three years is no small feat — managing both VM and PPPD takes real resilience. Treatment for VM typically falls into two categories: relieving symptoms during an attack and preventing future attacks.
For immediate relief during an attack, options can include
- Resting in a quiet, Show Full Answer
Living with vestibular migraine (VM) for three years is no small feat — managing both VM and PPPD takes real resilience. Treatment for VM typically falls into two categories: relieving symptoms during an attack and preventing future attacks.
For immediate relief during an attack, options can include:
- Resting in a quiet, dark room
- Cold or warm compresses
- Motion sickness or allergy medications to ease vertigo
- Triptans like sumatriptan (Imitrex) or rizatriptan (Maxalt) to block pain pathways
- A newer medication called lasmiditan (Reyvow), approved for migraine with or without aura For preventing frequent VM attacks, doctors may suggest:
- Beta blockers (e.g., propranolol, timolol) to help relax blood vessels
- Calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine) to prevent artery contractions
- Antidepressants like tricyclics (amitriptyline, nortriptyline) which may help regulate serotonin
- Anticonvulsants like topiramate (Topamax) Beyond medication, lifestyle and physical approaches also play a big role:
- Vestibular rehabilitation therapy — exercises like stretching, balance work, and eye movement control
- Consistent daily routines — regular mealtimes, good sleep, and stress management
- Trigger tracking — keeping a headache journal to identify patterns like hormonal changes, weather, caffeine, or stress
- Neuromodulation devices that stimulate specific nerves
Working closely with a headache specialist or neurotologist is key to finding the right combination that works for you.
June 28