What are some causes of Vestibular Migraines?

Where to begin? I am still researching and trying to find resources of the complexity of this condition. Since I was diagnosed with this condition, I've asked myself, "Is this cause by genetics? If so, is it on my mother's side or father's side of the family? "Could I be the one that is very rare in my family that has this condition?" It is not fully understood or unknown what causes the vestibular migraines. I continue to search for answers to these questions. "What are my exact causes of migraines and triggers? Could it be neurological, genetic, hormonal, environmental, and other mechanisms?"

According to WebMD, Vestibular migraines (VM) are a type of migraine that primarily affect the balance system, causing vertigo, dizziness, and imbalance, often without a headache. While the exact cause is not fully understood, research points to a combination of neurological, genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors.

Key contributing factors and mechanisms include:

• Migraine pathways overlapping with balance pathways – In people with migraines, certain brain cells are more sensitive and can affect both pain and vestibular (balance) areas. When these pathways are overstimulated, dizziness can occur instead of (or alongside) headache The Vertigo Doctor.

• Blood flow changes – Migraine attacks can cause temporary changes in blood flow to parts of the brain, including areas that control balance. This can trigger vertigo if it affects vestibular centers or the inner ear The Vertigo Doctor.

• Genetic and familial patterns – VM tends to run in families, suggesting a hereditary component Johns Hopkins Medicine.

• Hormonal changes – Fluctuations in hormones such as estrogen during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can increase susceptibility. Both rising and falling estrogen levels have been linked to migraine and VM episodes Healthline.

• Sensory overload – The brain constantly integrates signals from the eyes, inner ear, and body. In VM, mismatches between these signals (e.g., from motion, visual stimuli, or head movement) can trigger dizziness The Vertigo Doctor.

Common triggers that can precipitate VM attacks include Cleveland Clinic+1:

• Stress and fatigue

• Sleep disturbances

• Certain foods and drinks (e.g., alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, aged cheese, red wine, MSG, citrus fruits, processed meats)

• Hormonal shifts (menstrual cycle, hormone therapy)

• Weather or barometric pressure changes

• Sensory overload (bright lights, loud sounds, strong smells)

In summary, vestibular migraines are likely caused by a combination of neurological sensitivity, genetic predisposition, hormonal influences, and environmental triggers. Understanding and avoiding personal triggers, along with stress and sleep management, can help reduce the frequency of attacks.

To be more aware of the triggers and causes, I feel that it can be all or it can depend on the type of migraine that you are having and its components. As having migraines and vertigo constantly, it is difficult to pinpoint what are my exact triggers and what are my exact causes with this condition. My migraines and vertigo episodes happen sporadic and unexpectedly. To try to prevent migraines and vertigo attacks, I try my best to manage my health and wellness by removing certain foods to eat and drink, exercise daily, find solutions to reduce stress, sleep, and many other natural remedies and environmental spaces. We can go more into these details in another footprints path with love. See you on the next Footprints Path with Love.