Posted by Karla (209.83.11.9) on May 12, 2000 at 09:11:07:
In Reply to: Magnesium??? posted by Kat on May 11, 2000 at 23:50:38:
I saw my neuro this week. He put me on a good daily vitamin and then gave me a sheet of paper on some natural reliefs for headaches primarly migraine but said it may help clusters and is worth a try. This is what it says:
SUPPLIMENT WITH MAGNESIUM. Magnesium deficiency may play a role in the development of migraines and recent studies have shown that supplemental magnesium in doses of 360 to 600 mg daily can reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks. I recommend a preventative daily dose of 500 mg, along with twice as much calcium to counter the mineral's laxative effect. Choose forms of magnesium other than magnesium oxide, which may not be well obsorbed.
EXPERIMENT WITH BIOFEEDBACK. Using biofeedback to warm your hands through the mind-body connection can change the circulatory dynamics in the head that may cause the headache. This technique has been shown in studies of both adults and children to reduce the frequency of migranines, as well as to shorten duration and alleviate pain when they do occur. Learn biofeedback from a trained practitioner, then practice at home before migraines occur. For referrals talk to your dr.
LEARN TO RELAX. If you find stress triggers or worsens your headaches, as it does for many people, help manage it by practicing relaxation technicques such as breathwork, meditation, yoga on a daily basis. While strenuous exercise may trigger headaches in some, most people find that regular, moderate exercise helps reduce the frequency of attacks. A brisk 45 minute walk at least five days a week fits the bill.
CONSIDER VITAMIN B-2 THERAPY. Preliminary research has shown that supplementing with vitamin B-2 (riboflavin) at a dose of 400 mg per day can significantly reduce the frequency and duration of headaches. Researchers suspect that B-2 may help by increasing energy production in brain cells, a process thought to be impaired in migraine sufferers. This dose, which appears to be safe, is much higher than what you'll find in either foods or a vitamin supplement, so you should discuss B-2 therapy with your physician, who can provide you with a prescription and monitor your progress. (by the way, it may take at least a month of daily use of B-2 to see a therapeutic effect.)
Now you all know as much as I do. Hope this helps some. The source of this is pg 8 April 2000 Self Healing