What are Basilar Migraines?Basilar migraines, also called basilar artery migraines, & basilar migraine headache are some what infamous for the aura symptoms associated with them. Symptoms of Basilar Artery MigrainesSometimes the strange visual aura can be two sided, and can be so bad can lead to temporary blindness.It's usually followed by in-coordination, double vision, vertigo ringing in the ears, trouble hearing, slurred speech, dizziness, and more severe versions of other migraine symptoms, such as nausea, head pain,, sensitivity to light and/or sound, and trouble thinking clearly. This stage of the attack usually lasts up to an hour, but can last days in some cases.  Usually there's a severe throbbing headache at the back of the head and on both sides, as opposed to the traditional one-sided headache, often in the temples. This is one of the most complicated migraine types. Where Do Basilar Migraines Come From?The basilar artery is in the back of your head supplying the lower posterior portion of your brain with oxygen. A main beneficiary is the visual cortex which helps to explain a lot of "visual" migraine symptoms.It is commonly believed that the basilar artery migraine had its start in this artery. The left and right vertebral arteries ascend though a treacherous path, as they thread through the upper vertebrae individually, and once in the cranial vault, join together to form the single Basilar Artery. Researchers consider that the main roots of migraine in general come from the expanding and contracting of blood vessels. Today, researchers are also looking at neurological factors. Some say the basilar artery migraine likely doesn't start in the artery at all, but has its roots in the chemicals sending messages throughout your brain. Many believe that it is a combination of the both. Concern Over This Type of Complicated MigraineEveryone is concerned about these events for a couple of reasons. First, the symptoms are the same as some much more serious conditions, a CT or MRI, can be used to rule out exotic possibilities.Second, there is consideration that people with this type of migraine headache may be at greatly increased risk of stroke. Basilar type migraines are somewhat rare, and even if this describes you, they are not a reason to panic. Since the severe symptoms this type is so rare, there has been less research done specifically on them. Although the treatment is often similar to other types of migraine, there are some differences. Many of the traditional medications used (triptans) are avoided. The Classic Basilar may be rare, but a more common less alien form of Basilar Migraine may be more prevalent than once believed. Take the Beyond Headaches Lifestyle Tour for a deeper look.
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