Have you ever felt the world spinning around you when everything is stationary? Or experienced a severe headache followed by a disorienting sense of movement? If you answered 'yes' to these questions, you might be facing a lesser-known aspect of migraines called Migraine Associated Vertigo (MAV). This comprehensive guide dives into MAV, demystifying its symptoms, causes, and potential remedies you can tap into.

What is Migraine Associated Vertigo (MAV)?

Often referred to as Vestibular Migraine, MAV is a condition where individuals experience vertigo symptoms alongside migraine associated vertigo symptoms such as headaches, sensitivity to light, and nausea. Additionally, MAV introduces a set of vestibular disturbances, including: 

• Spontaneous vertigo lasting from minutes to hours
• Positional vertigo lasting seconds, often instigated by head movement
• Persistent imbalance or disequilibrium
• Tinnitus or ringing in the ears
• Temporary hearing loss or auditory fullness

It's worth noting that these vestibular symptoms can manifest without any headache, making MAV a tricky condition to diagnose.

How Can Migraines Cause Vertigo? 

Although the exact origin of MAV remains under investigation, prevailing theories suggest that factors triggering migraines can also activate MAV. Some of these are:

• Hormonal shifts in women
• Certain foods and additives
• Caffeine or alcohol intake
• Sensory stimuli like glaring lights or loud sounds
• Disruptions in the sleep-wake cycle
• Physical activities
• Environmental changes, including shifts in weather or barometric pressure

Diagnosing and Managing MAV

Diagnosing MAV isn’t straightforward since no definitive test exists. Healthcare professionals typically gather comprehensive patient histories and rule out other vertigo sources. This process may involve hearing tests, balance evaluations, and MRI scans.

Addressing MAV typically involves a two-pronged strategy: alleviating symptoms and staving off future episodes.

1. Symptomatic relief

•  Medications: Common pain relievers and anti-vertigo drugs can temper symptoms. Severe instances may warrant the prescription of certain medications.
• Vestibular rehabilitation therapy: This physical therapy variant fortifies the vestibular system, proving beneficial for those grappling with balance issues.
• Dietary and lifestyle changes: Minimizing the consumption of known triggers, like caffeine, can be effective. Ensuring consistent sleep patterns, stress management, and avoiding specific sensory stimuli can also be crucial.

2. Preventive treatment

• Medication: Drugs like beta-blockers, anti-seizure medications, and certain antidepressants can decrease MAV occurrences in some patients.
• Biofeedback and behavioral therapy: These approaches help patients recognize and dodge triggers.
• Supplements: Preliminary findings suggest magnesium and riboflavin (vitamin B2) as potential MAV deterrents.

Living with Migraine Associated Vertigo: The Role of Upper Cervical Care

MAV, while unsettling, isn't insurmountable. If you suspect you're exhibiting MAV symptoms, consult a medical professional. Proper diagnosis is the cornerstone of effective management. Moreover, exploring various therapeutic approaches, such as Upper Cervical Care, has shown promise in relieving migraine associated vertigo for many individuals. This specialized form of chiropractic care focuses on the upper neck's precise alignment and the postural imbalance’s potential impact on neurological functions. If MAV continues to challenge your day-to-day life, considering Upper Cervical Care could be a transformative step towards regaining your health and balance. 

Consult with a professional vertigo chiropractor to determine how to move forward and help your body regain balance with gentle atlas adjustments.