Elucidation of the levels of vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium in the serum of Egyptian migraine patients: a case-control study

Abstract

Background: Migraine, although, is a prevalent disease; its pathogenesis is complex and still not fully elucidated. The effect of vitamin D on various neurological disorders is thought to be exerted either directly via its specific receptors or through the related minerals. We investigated the possible relationship between vitamin D level and its related minerals (calcium and magnesium) and migraine characteristics in patients. Subjects and methods: Thirty healthy individuals and 60 age- and sex-matched migraineurs (22 chronic and 38 episodic migraineurs), diagnosed according to the International Headache Society criteria (ICHD-III), were recruited. After obtaining basic data, a visual analogue scale (VAS) for the severity of migraine pain was assessed. Migraine severity questionnaire (MIGSEV) and the Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) questionnaire were given and illustrated to the participants. Blood samples were obtained, and serum concentrations of vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium were determined. Results: Migraine patients had significantly lower level of serum vitamin D and magnesium than healthy subjects with (P < 0.001 and P = 0.04), respectively. However, the difference between the serum calcium levels of the patient and the control group was not statistically significant. Moreover, vitamin D and magnesium had a significant negative correlation with frequency, duration, severity, and disability in migraine. Conclusion: Vitamin D and magnesium were significantly deficient in migraine patients and were related to the severity and disability of migraine attacks. Low vitamin D and magnesium levels were associated with more frequency and longer duration of migraine attacks.