Is Your Headache From Acid-Reflux?

Acid Reflux Headache or Gastric Headache - All That You Need to Know

The International Headache Society (IHS) introduced the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-II) in 2004, followed by the recent release of ICHD-III. These classifications serve as guidelines for physicians worldwide to diagnose various headache disorders. 

Of these, an association of headaches with gastrointestinal disorders wasn't considered.

Contrary to this, interestingly, inevitable primary headaches, which are not associated with other underlying conditions, have shown improvement when gastrointestinal (GI) abnormalities are addressed. 

Just like this, everyone on initial evaluations tends to overlook the potential connection between headaches and GI disorders. 

But recently, Gastrointestinal Headche was duely recognised which lead to a miriad of changes in the perspective of diet and lifestyle approaches to overcome different kinds of headaches.

Time-Honoured Wisdom on Acid Reflux-Induced Headaches

Ayurveda has mentioned in its scholarly articles for acid reflux as 'Urdhwaga Amlapitta'. That is, something sour that moves upwards.

While detailing the association of doshas in the disorder Amlapitta, headache one of th symptoms of Amlapitta or acid reflux associated with an imbalanced Kapha bioenergy.

Even ancient Persian physicians recognised a specific type of headache believed to originate from stomach disorders, referring to it as "Gastric Headache" or "Participatory Headache of Gastric Origin" in their writings.

It's worth noting that headaches can have various causes unrelated to acid reflux, so it's important to consider other factors. 

How Can GERD Cause Headaches?

Recent studies have highlighted a connection between GERD and headaches, although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood. Headaches, including migraines, have been associated with various gastrointestinal conditions such as indigestion, constipation, and inflammatory bowel disorders. 

Approximately 30 to 50 per cent of individuals with chronic headaches or migraines also have GERD, but the causal relationship between the two is still being investigated.

One theory suggests that increased sensitivity to pain in the parasympathetic system, which is responsible for automatic bodily functions, may contribute to the link between gastrointestinal disorders and headaches. 

Furthermore, shared factors like food allergies, medications, and serotonin levels are being explored as potential contributors to the connection between headaches and reflux.

Can Acid Reflux Cause Headaches and Dizziness?

Both headaches and dizziness can be associated with acid reflux and GERD. While the connection between migraines or severe headaches and dizziness has been recognised for some time, recent evidence suggests that GERD can also contribute to these symptoms.

Acid reflux and GERD occur when stomach acid rises from the stomach into the oesophagus, leading to irritation or a burning sensation. In some instances, the refluxed stomach acid can reach the eustachian tubes in the throat, which are connected to the inner ear. As the ear plays a crucial role in maintaining balance, disruptions in ear pressure caused by stomach acid can result in dizziness.

Acid Reflux, Headache, and Fatigue-Connecting the Dots

Additionally, GERD and acid reflux have been associated with shortness of breath due to inflammation and swelling in the airway. This shortness of breath, known as dyspnea, is a significant factor contributing to dizziness and potential episodes of loss of consciousness.

We know the crucial connection between gut health, specifically the gut microbiota, and overall well-being. Maintaining a balanced gut is needed for optimal functioning of various systems in the body. When this balance is disrupted, it can have cascading effects on seemingly unrelated areas.

Recurring acid reflux, a common symptom of GERD, can significantly impact sleep quality. Lying down makes it easier for stomach acid to travel up the throat, leading to discomfort and disturbed sleep. The combination of headache pain and acid reflux can further disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to chronic fatigue symptoms.

It's important to understand that GERD is not limited to heartburn alone. Several other symptoms associated with this condition may surprise you. 

These include;

• Burping
• Difficulty or pain with swallowing
• Excessive saliva production
• A sensation of food getting stuck in the throat
• Chronic sore throat
• Hoarseness
• Laryngitis
• Gum inflammation
• Sour taste in the mouth
• Bad breath

Read our blog on GERD to understand more.

Specific Symptoms of Headache Due to Acidity

Headaches caused by acid reflux can vary in their symptoms. Some people may experience pain in their temples, while others feel a tight band-like sensation around their heads. The pain can be dull or throbbing and may occur on one or both sides of the head.

Acid reflux and GERD can also trigger symptoms similar to sinusitis, which is inflammation of the sinuses. A sinus headache caused by acid reflux may include:

• Dull pain around the eyes
• Tenderness or pain around the cheekbones
• A sensation of pressure in the head
• Head pain upon waking up in the morning or when bending over

In addition, acid reflux headaches may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Stomach pain or burning sensation
• Frequent belching
• Bloating
• Feeling excessively full after eating

In some cases, acid reflux headaches may also coincide with migraine aura, which involves seeing flashes of light or experiencing other sensory disturbances.

Reliable Remedies for Acid Reflux-Triggered Headaches

You can try several remedies at home to improve acid reflux and alleviate associated headaches. 

1. Limit Alcohol and Tobacco: Both alcohol consumption and smoking can worsen acid reflux. Making lifestyle changes to avoid or reduce these habits can help control GERD and its related symptoms. 
2. Adjust Sleeping Positions: Your sleep posture can significantly impact acid reflux. Avoid eating large meals or snacks before bedtime, and elevate your head while sleeping. Using extra pillows, wedge pillows, or elevating the head of your bed with risers can help reduce acid reflux. Additionally, sleeping on your left side may promote better gut health.
3. Incorporate Moderate Exercise: Regular exercise is beneficial, but certain activities can exacerbate acid reflux. Strenuous exercises like weightlifting or abdominal crunches can worsen reflux symptoms. Opt for moderate or low-impact exercises to reap the benefits of physical activity without aggravating GERD.
4. Make Dietary Changes: Adjusting your eating habits and food choices can significantly impact acid reflux. Reduce the consumption of fried foods, foods high in fat or acid, and excessive salt, as these can worsen GERD symptoms. Keep a food diary to identify specific trigger foods that worsen your condition and work towards reducing or eliminating them from your diet.

Implementing these remedies and making appropriate lifestyle modifications can help manage acid reflux and alleviate headaches. 

If the remedies above do not relieve your symptoms, it's advisable to seek medical attention. Additionally, if you experience severe shortness of breath or notice blood in your cough, vomit, or stool, it is essential to seek immediate medical help.

Preventing GERD Headaches - How and Why?

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. There is a reason this saying is so well-known. Making dietary and lifestyle changes to reduce acid reflux is the best way to control GERD and headaches. Some prevention strategies include:

• Weight loss
• A healthy diet that avoids acidic foods, fatty or fried foods, and alcohol
• Light to moderate exercise
• Elevating the head of your bed
• Avoiding eating before you lie down
• Reducing stress and inflammation

Eat the Right Way

Avoiding high-fat, salty, and spicy foods can help reduce acid reflux symptoms and prevent headaches. Specifically, try to steer clear of the following:

• Caffeine
• Fried foods
• Processed snacks like potato chips
• Chilli powder and hot peppers
• Fatty meats like bacon and sausage
• Cheese
• Tomato-based sauces
• Citrus fruits
• Chocolate
• Peppermint
• Carbonated beverages (soda)

Instead, focus on incorporating these helpful foods into your diet:

• Fibre-rich foods, including whole grains like oatmeal, root vegetables like sweet potatoes, and green vegetables like broccoli, help prevent overeating.
• Alkaline foods with a lower pH, such as bananas, melons, and cauliflower.
• Watery foods like cucumber, watermelon, and herbal tea promote hydration.
• By making these dietary adjustments, you can support your efforts in managing acid reflux symptoms and reducing the occurrence of acid reflux headaches.

Read more about treating GERD naturally here. - How Long Does it Take to Treat GERD Naturally

Essential Coping Strategies

• Find a quiet, comfortable space to rest, avoiding the foetal position that strains the neck.
• Apply a cold compress to the forehead to constrict blood vessels and reduce pain signals.
• Drink extra fluids like water, herbal tea, and non-acidic beverages. Non-fat milk can also provide relief for GERD symptoms.
• Ensure you get regular, adequate sleep of about eight hours per night.
• Avoid wearing tight head accessories or anything that puts pressure on the face or scalp.
• Minimise unnecessary chewing, such as gum or nail/lip biting, and opt for smaller bites of food.
• Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, muscle relaxation, and visualisation.
• Avoid high-impact exercises that increase pressure on the abdomen, worsening GERD or acid reflux symptoms.
• Consider incorporating light to moderate exercises like yoga to help alleviate GERD symptoms.
• Keep a journal to track and identify potential triggers, including food, exercise, and activities.

The Takeaway!

The gut-brain axis connects your brain and gastrointestinal tract, making acid reflux or GERD a potential cause of acid reflux headaches. Simple home remedies like using a cold compress can provide relief for an acid reflux headache, while making lifestyle changes such as avoiding cigarettes and alcohol may help prevent them.

It's essential to consult your healthcare provider for other treatment options.