A migraine headache is a severe head pain that may also be associated with visual problems and nausea. When visual disturbances, such as seeing stars or zig zags, are present, this condition is called migraine with aura. These visual issues occur about half an hour before the headache starts, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. A variety of natural and alternative treatments have been evaluated, including diet, vitamins and other supplements, as well as homeopathic, chiropractic and massage therapies. If you suffer from this condition and consider taking vitamins, you should first talk to your doctor.
Vitamin B-2
Based on a review of research studies, vitamin B-2 has been found effective in managing migraine headaches. Riboflavin may be used for this condition either alone or in combination with conventional drugs, according to a review published in "Current Treatment Options in Neurology." The authors also note that good candidates for using natural treatments, such as vitamin B-2 and biofeedback, are individuals who have significant, disabling migraines or other associated mood or anxiety disorders, as well as those who overuse conventional drugs or simply prefer alternative treatments.
Vitamin D
According to an Indian medical research team, there is a worldwide deficiency in vitamin D blood levels, and this deficiency is linked with various medical conditions that involve pain, including migraines and tension headaches. This study, reported in "The Journal of Headache and Pain," indicates that previous studies found that supplementation with vitamin D improved headache disorders. The authors further explain that vitamin D deficiency is correlated with lack of sun, which also supports observations that the headache attacks occur more frequency in the autumn and winter, and they are more common in individuals who live at a higher latitude.
Vitamin CoQ10
Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a vitamin-like nutrient that has also been researched for potential benefits in improving migraine headaches, particularly in children and teenagers. In a study appearing in the January 2007 issue of the journal "Headache," scientists found that the prevalence of CoQ10 deficiency is increased in individuals with migraines, and that subsequent supplementation was effective in managing the symptoms of this condition.
Considerations
Consult a qualified healthcare provider to find out optimal dosage of these vitamins that may help improve your condition. Keep in mind that vitamins and natural supplements do not replace, and should not be used to replace, any conventional drugs prescribed for migraines. Natural products are not approved by Food and Drug Administration to treat migraine headaches.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Migraine Headache
- "Current Treatment Options in Neurology"; Nonpharmacologic Treatments for Migraine and Tension-type Headache: How to Choose and When to Use; R.A. Nicholson, et al.; February 2011
- "The Journal of Headache and Pain"; The Prevalence of Headache May be Related with the Latitude: a Possible Role of Vitamin D Insufficiency?; S. Prakash, et al.; August 2010
- "Headache"; Coenzyme Q10 Deficiency and Response to Supplementation in Pediatric and Adolescent Migraine; A.D. Hershey, et al.; January 2007
