A migraine is more than a typical headache. Migraine headaches cause painful throbbing that usually begins on one side of the head, spreading to both sides as the migraine intensifies. A migraine with or without aura usually lasts between four and 72 hours. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, magnesium deficiency may be responsible for some recurrent migraines.
Auras
There are two types of migraines -- those with aura and those without. Formerly known as the common migraine, a migraine with aura often produces visual disturbances that may include flashes of light, hallucinations, heat flashes, spots, stars or differing patterns that seem to flash in front of the eyes. If you are a migraine sufferer, you may also notice that a blind spot or scotoma develops along with migraine auras, according to the University of Utah.
Magnesium Deficiency
For some migraine sufferers, hormone fluctuations such as a rise or drop in estrogen bring about the headaches. In others, magnesium deficiency is the culprit. El Paso Community College explains that a drop in magnesium has a direct correlation to migraines and auras. This drop in magnesium is also responsible for irritability and nervousness, which can further stress the migraine condition. If a physician suspects migraines with aura, she may prescribe magnesium supplementation.
Supplementation
If you suffer from migraines with aura, magnesium supplementation along with dietary changes and over-the-counter pain relievers can help. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, 200 to 600 mg of magnesium each day raises magnesium levels. Such supplementation also reduces the frequency of migraines by 41.6 percent, spelling much-needed relief to anyone familiar with the pain and visual disturbances of migraines. Unfortunately, migraine relief is not without its side effects. Magnesium supplementation can lead to bouts of diarrhea and low blood pressure.
Considerations
Sometimes magnesium supplementation is not enough. It is important to work with your physician and follow her instructions faithfully when it comes to reducing instances of migraines with and without auras. NYU Langone Medical Center explains that it is crucial to notify your physician if there are any changes in the frequency of your migraines or the pattern in which they occur. This will give the physician an opportunity to search for any underlying health conditions that may be triggering or contributing to your migraine pain.
