Pressure on Head, Balance problem and tinnitus (migraines now and then in clusters)

[seekingwhy]

I was diagnosed in 1994 with Mal De Dembarkment which is a balance disorder not dissimilar to feeling like you are rocking on a boat. This persisted for at least 5 years and then the symptoms started reducing although it never has completely disappeared but it was very manageable for a number of years. This disorder also caused me to feel anxiety now and then when the symptoms were aggressive. Then early this year I started suffering severe migrains almost every second day (pain in the jaw and sinus and neck). Then in April this year, I had a balance attack at a service station where I lost my balance and had to lie down on the ground - I couldn't focus or get up - quite scary and hence my heart rate increased. Since then, I have felt dizzy daily and when I don't have migraines I feel a tight pressure on top of my head. This is now causing me a little anxiety if I feel I am going to have one of my balance attacks when everything just feels wobbly (by the way which I have had numerous times since April). Anyone have any ideas? Am having tests done at the moment.

[seekingwhy]

Hi,

Thanks for your comment. Am getting an Audio test as well as vestibular/balance tests level 1 which includes a ENG or water test. The neurologist I am seeing thinks that given I have had an MRI and cat scan that this is all I would require. He suggested I start migraine treatment with tablets daily for 3 to 4 months once the balance and audio tests are completed.

Thanks

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

Thanks for writing in.
I would suggest you to get a complete ENT exam done since the sense of balance is controlled by inner ear and cerebellum in the brain. Inner ear problems like Meniere’s disease and BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo), labrynthitis or vestibular neuritis can cause vertigo and dizziness.
These symptoms of dizziness and vertigo can also be due to migraines and excessive anxiety. Are you taking any treatment for migraine?