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Basilar Migraine Diagnosis

The National Institute of Health says basilar-type migraines primarily affect children and teenagers. In adolescent girls, they are linked most frequently to menstrual cycles. Basilar migraines cause severe headaches and other symptoms such as fainting.

  1. Causes

    • The University of Maryland Medical Center says basilar migraines develop in the basilar artery, which sits at the foot of the skull. Basilar migraine is regarded as a subtype of "migraine with aura." Auras are sensory intrusions that take place prior to the onset of a migraine in approximately 1:5 patients.

    Auras

    • Positive auras consist of bright lights or shapes at the corners of the field of vision that can expand and block the line of vision.

      Negative auras may include blind spots, tunnel vision or dark holes. Some patients may suffer from both positive and negative auras.

      Occasionally, the auras associated with basilar migraines can result in a numbness, tingling or weakness in the legs or arms.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms of basilar migraines may include severe headaches that appear suddenly and produce throbbing pain. These headaches may be accompanied by partial or complete loss of vision and/or double vision. Some patients suffer from vertigo (the room spins), ringing in the ears, slurred speech and perhaps loss of consciousness.

    Diagnosis

    • Since basilar migraines can imitate other more serious conditions like seizure disorders or brain lesions, your doctor will want to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms. You may undergo an imaging study such as a MRI or CT scan in order to help diagnose a basilar migraine.

    Treatment

    • Triptan drugs-- sumatriptan (Imitrex) and rizatriptan (Maxalt)--are frequently used for moderate to severe migraine pain. They work by raising levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain. Serotonin causes blood vessels to constrict and lowers the pain threshold.

      Patients who frequently suffer from basilar migraines need preventive medications such as verapamil. Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing blood vessels.

    Home Remedies

    • Non-medicinal treatment for a basilar migraine includes lying in a quiet, dark room with your eyes closed. Your discomfort may be further relieved by placing an ice pack or a cold towel on your forehead. Drinking plenty of fluids also is helpful.

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