How Are Headaches and Heartburn Related?

There seems to be limited literature linking headaches and heartburn. This is despite the fact that there appears to be anecdotal evidence linking both ailments. This is especially true when someone who has both problems treats each ailment. People who use certain remedies to treat headaches often find that they develop heartburn symptoms and certainly overusing heartburn medications can lead to headaches. To understand the link between headache and heartburn will go a long way to the treatment of both ailments. Caffeine; particularly from coffee, has been identified as a primary suspect in this problem.

Coffee's Complicity In The Link Between Headaches and Heartburn

Caffeinated coffee remains as one of the world's most popular beverages. Coffee is drunk in the morning to get many people's days started and may also be had at the end of a satisfying dinner. Coffee is used as a stimulant to start and end each day for many people. Coffee is also a preferred when people socialize. Research has been undertaken to study the link between headache and heartburn. The results show that consuming moderate amounts of caffeinated coffee does not impact one's health unfavorably; unless one is sensitive to coffee. Those who are sensitive to coffee tend to react to coffee even if consumed in small quantities.

Does Coffee Help Relieve Headaches?

Caffeine has often been used to get relief from mild forms of headache. Caffeine is often found in both over-the-counter and prescriptive medications used to relieve headaches. If these medications are taken along with a cup of coffee it appears that relief from the pain of headaches is achieved quicker as documented in recent studies. If one is accustomed to drinking lots of coffee and decides to reduce their intake, the side effect is that the frequency of headaches seems to increase. The irony is that the coffee being drunk to get relief from headaches may actually increase the pain from heartburn.

Does Coffee Aggravate Heartburn?

Most medical professionals will recommend reducing the intake of coffee in order to quell the pains from heartburn. This is especially important for those who suffer from frequent heartburn. Coffee consumed in moderate amounts will not lead to heartburn symptoms. As more studies are conducted to establish the link between headache and heartburn more conclusively, one can in the meantime consider taking an antacid along with the cup of coffee as a means to enjoy the benefits of the caffeine without the pain of heartburn.

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