Author: MJT
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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