Vestibular migraine or headache is a type of migraine that primarily affects the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and spatial orientation. Vestibular migraines often cause dizziness, vertigo, balance disturbances and visual discomfort (including glare sensitivity). These symptoms can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life.
The vestibular and ocular systems interact intricately to maintain balance, stablise gaze and ensure smooth and coordinated movement. This interaction is crucial for activities such as walking, reading, maintaining posture and feeling comfortable in space. It makes sense then that dysfunction in one system can contribute to dysfunction in the other.
At LA Optical, our experienced and trained optometrists, Lauren and Abby, understand vestibular dysfunction. We can play a crucial role in the management and treatment of vestibular migraines through thorough assessment and management of the visual and ocular components of the condition.
Benefits of seeing a specifically trained optometrist:
- Comprehensive eye examination
- Identify visual triggers and abnormalities that may contribute to vestibular migraines
- Assess eye alignment, coordination and focus, which are critical for maintaining balance and spatial orientation and preventing dizziness.
Sometimes small eye misalignments can cause large symptoms contributing to headaches, vestibular migrane and dizzy spells.
- Customised visual solutions:
- Based on the examination, specialised lenses and prisms can be prescribed to improve overall visual function and stabilise eye coordination which leads to improvement in balance
- Use of tinted lenses, coatings and filters which can significantly reduce light sensitivity and improve wearer comfort
- Collaboration with health care team
- Sharing insights and findings from the eye examination with your doctors can enhance overall treatment strategies
- Patient education and lifestyle advice:
- Education on visual hygiene and how we can prevent visual fatigue / strain and reduce migraine triggers
- Offer guidance on potential lifestyle modifications that can promote long term visual and vestibular health
We work closely with specialist GP Dr Annabelle Franklin and Jamie Green Physiotherapist.
At LA Optical, we believe that we can play a valuable role in the holistic approach to managing vestibular migraine. Our aim is to help our patients achieve better control over their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life. We would love to help you so consider scheduling an appointment with us to explore potential visual solutions for your vestibular migraines.
Vestibular migrane assessments are 45 minutes, a fee applies which includes a detailed report. Any additional scans may be at an additional cost. These appointment’s cannot be booked online.
Have questions about Vestibular migrane treatments Toowoomba? Get in touch with us.
