Have you ever developed an intense headache accompanied by nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound? If so, you may have experienced a migraine. While common, the causes are not fully understood, and the list of possible symptoms is long. One symptom that experts are not ready to add to this list is hearing loss.
Vestibular Migraines
As many as 40% of all migraines involve your vestibular system, meaning they cause a feeling of dizziness or imbalance before, during or after a migraine event. The vestibular system is a sensory system in your inner ear responsible for providing your brain with information about where your body is in space, which helps you balance.
While the exact cause of migraines is unclear, experts have identified a number of possible triggers including:
- Hormonal changes.
- Alcohol and caffeine.
- Stress.
- Strong smells.
- Changes in sleep.
- Foods and food additives.
- Medications.
- Changes in weather.
Connection with Hearing Issues
While many have an increased sensitivity to sound during a migraine attack, experts do not believe that hearing loss and hearing problems are commonly associated with migraines.
There are some common hearing loss issues that are associated with migraines, but not enough research has been conducted to determine if there is a relationship between the two of both conditions just happen to coexist.
Other Conditions that Cause Headaches and Hearing Loss
There are a few conditions that may be misdiagnosed as migraines that also include hearing loss on their list of symptoms.
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is a rare genetic disorder that occurs when there is too much cerebrospinal fluid around the brain and spinal cord. This condition can cause severe headaches, vision loss and tinnitus.
Meniere’s disease occurs when there is a buildup of fluid within the inner ear. Vertigo, headaches, tinnitus and hearing loss are common symptoms.
When to Seek Help
Feeling dizzy after getting off the Long Beach Pike might be normal for some, but a sudden onset of dizziness paired with a headache, hearing loss, fever or vomiting is not. This could be a sign of a serious medical condition, and you should seek immediate medical attention.
To learn more about conditions that may cause hearing loss or to schedule an appointment with a hearing loss expert, contact Torrance Audiology today.