Ian Purcell MD PHD
Otoneurology
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Dizzy Doctor

Dr. Purcell "Dizzy Doctor"

Gain deeper insights into the career and achievements of Dr. Ian Purcell, including his detailed CV and professional journey.
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About Dr. Purcell
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The "Dizzy Doctor"
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🌎 Dizzy Doctor Around the world

DizzyDoctor Systems

Explore Dr. Purcell’s innovative efforts in vestibular science, enhancing global understanding and treatment of balance disorders. Learn more about the technologies and methodologies transforming patient care worldwide.
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Dr. Purcell's Global Mission

Discover the locations and initiatives where Dr. Purcell has made significant impacts on vestibular health.
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Educational Resources
Migraine Variant

Migraine Variant

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Migraine variant refers to types of migraines that manifest symptoms differently from the conventional migraine headache. This condition involves a spectrum of neurological phenomena that can mimic other disorders, making diagnosis and management challenging.

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Etiology of Migraine Variants
The underlying causes of migraine variants are complex and not entirely understood. Research suggests several contributing factors:

  • Neurovascular Dysfunction: Changes in the blood vessels surrounding the brain can lead to disruptions in normal blood flow.
  • Hypoperfusion Disorders: Reduced blood flow to certain areas of the brain can trigger migraine symptoms.
  • Microembolisation: Small blockages in the blood vessels may cause temporary symptoms as seen in classic migraine episodes.
  • Cortical Spreading Depression (CSD): This phenomenon involves a slow-moving wave of electrochemical activity in the brain, often linked to the sensory disturbances typical of migraines, such as visual auras.

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Symptoms
Patients with migraine variants often experience:

  • Paroxysmal Episodes of Vertigo: These episodes can last from hours to days, causing significant disruption in balance and spatial orientation.
  • Transient Fluctuating Tinnitus and Hearing Loss: Some patients report changes in hearing and unexplained sounds that may accompany or occur independently of vertigo episodes.
  • Classic Migraine Symptoms: These include headaches, visual disturbances (aura), sensitivity to light and sound, and nausea.

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Diagnosis
Diagnosing migraine variants involves a detailed patient history and exclusion of other possible conditions through:

  • Neurological Examination: Assessing brain and nerve function to rule out other neurological disorders.
  • Imaging Tests: MRI or CT scans can help visualize the brain's structure to exclude other causes of symptoms.
  • Vestibular Tests: Evaluating the inner ear and balance functions, especially when vertigo is a primary symptom.

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Management
Treatment for migraine variants focuses on symptom relief and prevention of episodes:

  • Medication: Preventive medications that stabilize neurological function, such as anticonvulsants or certain antidepressants, may be helpful. Acute treatments include NSAIDs or triptans for pain relief.
  • Lifestyle Adjustments: Regular sleep patterns, stress management, and avoiding known migraine triggers can be beneficial.
  • Vestibular Rehabilitation: For those with vertigo as a symptom, vestibular rehabilitation exercises can help manage balance issues.

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Living with Migraine Variants
Understanding and managing this condition require patience and a proactive approach to healthcare. Keeping a detailed diary of symptoms can help identify triggers and effective treatments. Collaboration with a healthcare provider is crucial in developing a comprehensive management plan that considers all aspects of this complex condition.

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Read More

Neuromuscular Disorders
Seizure Disorders
Cupulolithiasis
Memory Loss/Dementia
Post-Concussive Syndrome/Traumatic Brain Injury
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Acoustic Schwannomas
Vestibular Rehabilitation
Cardiac Arrhythmias
Nystagmus
Orthostatic Hypotension
Parkinson's Disease
Vestibular Migraine
Presbyastasis
Tinnitus
Sleep Apnea
Meniere's Disease
Viral Neuronitis & Labyrinthitis
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
Dizziness
Ian Purcell MD PHD
Otoneurology

We are a specialty Oto-Neurology practice focusing on complex vertigo and balance disorders.

OUR Location

7625 Mesa College Drive
Suite 200A
San Diego, CA 92111

Contact

PHONE:
  • (858) 223-2172
FAX:
  • (858) 533-8397
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