Many people are surprised to learn that migraine isn’t always just about head pain.
For those with vestibular migraine, dizziness, imbalance, and a sense that the room is spinning can be the most disabling symptoms.
These unsettling episodes may occur with or without a headache, often leaving people feeling foggy and disoriented.
Despite how common this condition is, vestibular migraine is frequently misunderstood—many are misdiagnosed with vertigo, anxiety, or inner ear disorders, without anyone recognising the link.
Why I’m Talking About This
My name is Kevin Go, and I am a headache clinician at Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic.
I work specifically with people experiencing persistent headaches, migraines, dizziness, and neck-related symptoms.
A large part of my clinical work involves treating patients who have been passed between multiple providers without clear answers, particularly when dizziness and migraine symptoms overlap.
What the Research Tells Us
Vestibular migraine is one of the most common causes of recurrent dizziness. Research suggests it affects up to 30 percent of people who experience migraine. Despite this, it is often underdiagnosed.
Common features may include:
- Dizziness or vertigo lasting minutes to hours
- Sensitivity to light, sound, or movement
- Headache that may or may not occur with dizziness
- Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Nausea and motion sensitivity
Importantly, many people with vestibular migraine have normal scans and normal inner ear testing. This can add to the frustration and confusion.
The Real Problem
The biggest issue is that vestibular migraine is rarely just one system at fault.
The brain, inner ear, eyes, and upper neck all communicate constantly to maintain balance. When the migraine system becomes sensitised, this communication can become distorted.
This means:
- Dizziness may not come from the ear alone
- Neck dysfunction can amplify vestibular symptoms
- Rest alone often makes symptoms worse over time
- Avoiding movement can increase sensitivity
Without addressing all contributing factors, symptoms tend to linger or return.
What Actually Helps
Effective management focuses on calming the migraine system while gradually restoring tolerance to movement and activity.
This may include:
- Targeted upper cervical spine treatment
- Vestibular rehabilitation exercises
- Graded exposure to movement and visual stimuli
- Postural and load management strategies
- Education to reduce fear and uncertainty around symptoms
When managed correctly, many people experience significant improvement in both dizziness and headache frequency.
What You Can Do Now
If you experience dizziness with or without headaches, consider the following:
- Avoid complete rest for long periods
- Keep a brief symptom diary noting triggers and patterns
- Seek assessment from a clinician experienced in both migraine and vestibular care
If you are unsure where to start, professional guidance can make a significant difference.
Ready to Get Clarity?
If dizziness and migraines are impacting your work, confidence, or quality of life, help is available. You do not have to keep guessing what is wrong.
Call us on 1800 432 322 or book an appointment online to organise a comprehensive assessment. Early, targeted care can help you regain stability, clarity, and control.
Written by:
References
Calhoun, A.H. et al. (2011) ‘The point prevalence of dizziness or vertigo in migraine – and factors that influence presentation’, Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, 51(9), pp. 1388–1392. doi:10.1111/j.1526-4610.2011.01970.x.
Neuhauser, H. and Lempert, T. (2004) ‘Vertigo and dizziness related to migraine: A diagnostic challenge’, Cephalalgia, 24(2), pp. 83–91. doi:10.1111/j.1468-2982.2004.00662.x.
Vuković, V. et al. (2007) ‘Prevalence of vertigo, dizziness, and migrainous vertigo in patients with Migraine’, Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, 47(10), pp. 1427–1435. doi:10.1111/j.1526-4610.2007.00939.x.
Zito, G., Jull, G. and Story, I. (2006) ‘Clinical tests of musculoskeletal dysfunction in the diagnosis of cervicogenic headache’, Manual Therapy, 11(2), pp. 118–129. doi:10.1016/j.math.2005.04.007.
