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.
