MigraineMind research summary

Immersive Virtual Reality Exposure Associated With a Migraine With Brainstem Aura-Like Presentation and Prolonged Recovery: A Case Report.

Clin Case Rep | 2026

Case report / case series
AuthorsAl-Dawoudi A, Varlamov D, Alhallak S, Dalain M
JournalClin Case Rep
Publication year2026
PubMed ID42997322

Summary

a unique instance of a patient experiencing migraine-like symptoms after VR exposure. The patient had various symptoms, including dizziness and cognitive issues, after a 30-minute VR session. These symptoms partially improved but returned the next day with sensory overstimulation. Despite tests showing no significant issues, the patient faced unusual neurological symptoms for two weeks. These included extreme tiredness and heightened sensitivity to stimuli. While the symptoms resembled a migraine with brainstem aura, they did not meet official diagnostic criteria. Fortunately, the patient’s symptoms gradually resolved within two weeks. He reported no further issues during follow-ups at three and six months. This case highlights the potential for immersive VR to trigger prolonged neurological symptoms similar to migraines, raising awareness about the risks associated with VR exposure for certain individuals. Clinical relevance: This case suggests that immersive virtual reality may trigger prolonged migraine-like symptoms in some patients.

Original research

Read the original publication and review its full methods and findings on PubMed.

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