migraineassociated

Migraine-associated is a descriptor used in medical literature to refer to symptoms, syndromes, or conditions that occur in close temporal relation to migraine attacks or that share common underlying mechanisms with migraine. It is not a single diagnosis, but rather a framing term indicating linkage to migraine pathophysiology, including trigeminovascular activation and, in some cases, cortical spreading depression.

Common examples of migraine-associated phenomena include vestibular symptoms described as migraine-associated vertigo or vestibular migraine, where vertigo or dizziness accompanies migraine features or occurs in relation to migraine episodes. Other migraine-associated features include sensory sensitivities such as photophobia (light sensitivity) and phonophobia (sound sensitivity), nausea and vomiting, and cutaneous allodynia. Some individuals experience aura-related symptoms that are linked to their migraine pattern, though aura is typically considered part of migraine with aura rather than a separate condition.

Diagnosis is guided by recognizing a temporal and clinical relationship to migraine. Clinicians distinguish migraine-associated symptoms from primary disorders that may resemble migraine, using history, characterization of episodes, and, when needed, diagnostic criteria from established guidelines. Comorbid conditions, medication-overuse patterns, and the presence of chronic migraine can influence assessment and management.

Management of migraine-associated conditions generally follows established migraine treatment approaches, tailored to the specific associated syndrome. This may include acute and preventive migraine therapies, vestibular rehabilitation for vertigo, lifestyle and trigger management, and targeted interventions for specific symptoms. The use of the term “migraine-associated” emphasizes the linked nature of these phenomena rather than a separate disease category.