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Headache and Heartburn: What is the
Relationship?
While research appears to be limited on the link between
headaches and heartburn symptoms, there is a definite
relationship between the two when it comes to the treatment of
each of these conditions. It seems that many of the remedies
that are used to treat certain types of headaches can cause
heartburn symptoms, and overuse of heartburn medications can
lead to headaches. It is important to understand the
correlation between medications to treat these conditions and
the headache and heartburn symptoms that can occur as a result.
One of the primary culprits in this dilemma is caffeine,
particularly the caffeine that is found in coffee.
Coffee: Advantages and Disadvantages with Headaches and
Heartburn
Caffeinated coffee is one of the most common choices of
beverages in the world. Whether it is enjoyed in the morning as
a wake up call or in the evening after a good meal, this
beverage has become a social drink that many people like to
share with a friend. Many studies have been done on the health
effects of the caffeine that is found in coffee, particularly
in the instances of headache and heartburn. Most results show
that a moderate amount of caffeine will have few ill effects on
the body at all, but if you are particularly sensitive to
caffeine, you may feel these effects with a much lower intake
amount than other people.
The Benefits of Coffee on Headaches
Caffeine has long been thought to be beneficial in treating the
pain associated with certain types of headaches. In fact, this
substance is found in many over the counter and prescription
pain medications. Studies have shown that people who drink a
cup of coffee at the same time they take pain medication for a
headache will see greater results than those that only take the
medication. The downside to coffee and headaches is that if you
are accustomed to drinking large amounts of caffeine and you
suddenly quit your intake, you may suffer from withdrawal
headaches as a result. It is also possible that if you are
drinking coffee to alleviate the pain of a headache, heartburn
symptoms may take its place.
Coffee and Heartburn
While some studies show that coffee does not bring on heartburn
symptoms when taken in moderate amounts, those who suffer from
frequent heartburn symptoms after drinking coffee will beg to
differ. Coffee and the caffeine contained within is a known
culprit for heartburn, and many doctors and health
professionals will recommend that frequent heartburn sufferers
cut back on their coffee drinking. If you find that coffee
helps to reduce your headache, while causing heartburn, you can
try taking an antacid with your coffee to see the positive
results of a headache cure without the heartburn symptoms that
can accompany it.
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