There is no question that migraines can disrupt your life. They impose on work and home life, especially for people with small children. Those who suffer from basilar migraines (now called basilar-type migraines or BTM) know this all too well. The symptoms of a basilar-type migraine are severe and can be frightening to a sufferer. As scary as they may seem however, the symptoms themselves pose no risk. As with any medical condition, an open and ongoing dialogue with your doctor is critical to your health.
Triggers
Scientists still don't know exactly why, but they do know that certain foods or scents can trigger migraines. Alcohol and cigarette smoke are two of the most notorious triggers of migraine headaches, but perfumes and flowers with strong scents can be triggers too. Cheese, nuts and processed meats are also triggers. Keeping a food and headache diary can help you understand what triggers your migraines.
The First Sign of a Basilar-Type Migraine
Basilar-type migraines (as well as other types) are usually preceded by an aura. Auras range from zigzagging lines across your vision, to flashes of light, distortions and even temporary blindness. An aura will typically last anywhere from five to 60 minutes and serves as a headache early warning system. Again, it is important to note that while worrying, these symptoms are temporary and won't cause lasting damage.
After the Aura
Once the aura fades sufferers of basilar-type migraines can experience a number of symptoms. They may lose coordination and feel dizzy, and may even black out. Slurred speech, ringing in the ears, temporary hearing impairment, nausea, sensitivity to light, and trouble thinking clearly are all common symptoms. Because these symptoms are so severe, BTM sufferers often have trouble working.
Pain and Causes
A typical migraine is felt in the front of the head and is usually centralized on one side or the other. A basilar-type migraine is felt in the back of the head, at the base of the neck on both sides. The basilar artery is in this area of the brain and its expansion was once thought to cause BTM migraines. Today scientists and doctors believe that irregular nerve activity is a more likely cause of migraines. But why certain foods or smells trigger this activity is still unknown.
Treatment
Although basilar-type migraines are rare, new information is always surfacing about migraines in general so it is important to have regular visits with your doctor. And while there is no cure for a migraine, there are some treatments that prove helpful in mitigating pain and discomfort. Because of its location near the basilar artery, the medicines used for a typical migraine (triptans and ergotamines) are not used for basilar-type migraines. But doctors do recommend analgesics and mild narcotics. Resting in a dark, quiet room with an ice pack or cool, wet rag is also helpful.
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