A Link Between Migraines, Tinnitus & Hearing Loss

Do you ever have migraines? If you do, then you know how debilitating they can be. A migraine headache can cause throbbing in one particular area of the head which builds in intensity often causing nausea and sensitivity to light. They can often seem like they come out of nowhere but are often preceded by warning signs including tiredness, mood changes, craving sweet foods, feeling thirsty, or a stiff neck. No one knows for sure what causes them though researchers have tracked them to understand possible triggers including hormonal changes, certain foods, certain drinks, stress, and overexertion such as extreme exercise. If you’re a migraine sufferer, you’re probably far too familiar with the particular manner a migraine develops for you. However, if you also have hearing loss and tinnitus, have you considered that this could be contributing to the frequency of your migraines?  

Searching for a Link: Migraines and Hearing Loss

Researchers at Assiut University Hospital in Egypt, curious to understand the reasons why migraines occur, compiled a study around the correlation between migraines and hearing loss. The 2012 study was able to determine that out of 58 migraine sufferers, two-thirds had one or more abnormalities with their cochlea function and auditory pathways which signaled hearing impairments. While the study was inconclusive on the direct effect migraines had on hearing loss, or if hearing loss was a major contributing factor of migraines, it was able to identify high overlap. However, the researcher of this study suspects that the detected abnormalities in the auditory system may be caused by the compromised blood supply to the auditory system which is common during extreme migraine.  

Migraines and Damage to Stereocilia

A separate study published in 2000 by JAMA Neurology, found that migraines can damage the small hairs called stereocilia, within the inner ear. Stereocilia are key in sending sound to the brain by converting audio vibrations into electrical pulses. When these hair-like cells become damaged they can’t send sound to the brain, causing obstructions in hearing. This often manifests as the loss of some sounds within words or whole words in sentences. Ultimately it can cause communication issues that put rifts in long-lasting relationships and can often sabotage professional advancement in the workplace. This can lead to chronic depression, anxiety, isolation, cognitive decline, and reduced mobility.  

Migraines and Sudden Hearing Loss

Sudden hearing loss is defined as a loss of hearing that begins with no warning and for no apparent reason, develops over 24 hours or less. It is often due to an abrupt change or damage to the inner ear. A 2013 study published in The National Library of Medicine, determined that migraine sufferers are nearly twice as likely to develop sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Sensorineural hearing loss is defined by damage to the stereocilia. Researchers from Taipei Veterans General Hospital in Taiwan discovered a significant correlation between individuals who experience migraines and those who experience sudden hearing loss. While sudden hearing loss is a rather rare condition, it is important to note its connection.  

A Headache or a Migraine?

Headaches are common and can be caused by many different causes such as dehydration, lack of sleep, the wrong eyeglass prescription, stress, loud noise, or even tight headwear. What defines a migraine from a headache is the extremity of pain. If a headache starts to cause sensitivity to light, nausea, or vertigo, there is a good chance it may be a migraine.  

Treating a Migraine

Migraine headaches are chronic and can’t be cured. However, they can be treated, managed and the frequency reduced. Often medication is prescribed to reduce the frequency. Abortive medications are most effective at the first sign of migraine often by constricting blood vessels and reducing swelling. Preventive (prophylactic) medications may be prescribed when your headaches are severe and occur regularly, preventing you from participating in normal daily activities. They are taken regularly to reduce frequency.  

Treating Hearing Loss

Often migraines can be caused by stress. One major cause of stress is unaddressed hearing loss. Communication issues caused by hearing loss can cause stress and isolation. To avoid this stress, don’t delay treating your hearing loss as soon as possible. If you are experiencing migraines research shows you are at a greater risk for hearing loss. Schedule a hearing exam today.