Vestibular migraine is a type of migraine that often involves vertigo and dizziness. The stages of a vestibular migraine may follow those of standard migraine, or they may develop differently.

The stages of a vestibular migraine may look different for everyone. Some people may experience vestibular symptoms but no headache. Others may experience a headache before or after dizziness. In certain cases, dizziness and headache can also occur at the same time.

This article will look deeper into the stages of vestibular migraine. Keep reading to learn about vestibular migraine stages, treatments, and more.

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Vestibular migraine is a type of migraine that involves symptoms like dizziness or vertigo. This type of migraine may follow the standard migraine phases. These include:

Symptoms like irritability or neck stiffness may occur during the premonitory stage. The migraine gradually progresses to the headache stage. It ultimately resolves during the final stage, although it may take a few days for all symptoms to clear up.

The timeline of a vestibular migraine may differ from that of other migraine types. Vestibular symptoms can last anywhere from 5 minutes to 72 hours.

Vertigo may happen before, after, or during a headache. It may also occur on its own without an accompanying headache.

Symptoms may also occur at different times and levels of intensity.

Learn more about migraine stages.

People experiencing vestibular migraine may develop common migraine symptoms. These may include:

In addition to these symptoms, vestibular migraine may also involve:

Some people with vestibular migraine may not develop a headache at all. They may experience only vestibular symptoms like vertigo.

Here are some frequently asked questions about vestibular migraine.

How long should vestibular migraine last?

The timeline of a vestibular migraine can look different for everyone. Symptoms could last between 5 minutes and 72 hours. Some people may experience feelings of tiredness or dizziness for 3 days after a vestibular migraine episode.

What is the root cause of vestibular migraine?

There is no single known cause of vestibular migraine. However, research indicates that stress, depression, and anxiety may contribute.

Certain triggers can also lead to migraine. Triggers can range from eyestrain and dehydration to glaring lights or deafening sounds.

What are the long-term symptoms of vestibular migraine?

Vestibular migraine symptoms can resolve anywhere from minutes to hours after the onset of the episode. Some people may experience symptoms such as tiredness for a number of days after vestibular migraine. If symptoms such as dizziness or vertigo worsen or do not go away, it is best to seek medical advice.

In certain cases, the stages of a vestibular migraine may mimic those of a standard migraine. Dizziness and vertigo may occur before, during, or after a headache. Some people who have a vestibular migraine do not experience a headache at all.

Vestibular migraine typically resolves within a few days, though some people may experience some symptoms for longer. It is best to contact a doctor for advice if a person has concerns about the symptoms of vestibular migraine.