Spinning sensation that appears in the context of a strong headache.
The exact cause is unknown, although several triggering factors have been described: stress, some foods, changes of sleeping hours, hormonal changes and smoking.
Nausea, vomits, loss of balance and hearing disturbances may appear alongside the headache with a spinning sensation.
The diagnosis is clinical, through questioning and physical examination with a full neurological examination. Additional tests may be requested to complete the picture: blood tests, auditive evoked potentials, electroencephalogram, CT-scan, lumbar puncture or MRI.
The triggering cause should be treated if known. Relative rest in a quiet environment, sedatives, anti-emetics, analgesics or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, triptans and/or ergotamine are recommended.
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