Acid reflux is the back-flow of stomach contents into the esophagus.
This connection is called thegut-brain axis.
This article discusses the connection between acid reflux, GERD, and acid reflux headaches.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
People with more prevalent headaches report having more reflux than people without headaches.
Symptoms of Acid Reflux Headache
Not all gastric headaches are the same.
Some people experience pain in their temples while others experience what feels like a tight band around their head.
The pain may be dull or throbbing and located on one or both sides of the head.
Some people find it helpful to lie on the ground and rest their legs up against the wall.
Avoid lying in a fetal position, which can place extra strain on your neck.
Most adults need about eight hours of sleep per night.
Chew Less
attempt to avoid unnecessary chewing, which places extra pressure on your jaw and head.
Practice Relaxation
Relaxation techniques won’t directly cure acid reflux or acid reflux headaches.
However, they can reduce stress, which worsens headaches, and remove your focus away from your pain.
Helpful techniques to try include meditation,deep breathing exercises,muscle relaxation exercises, and visualization.
Try Yoga
It’s still important for people with acid reflux or GERD to exercise.
In fact, light to moderate exercises can be very beneficial for relieving and preventing gastroesophageal symptoms.
Keep a Journal
Journaling is an effective tool for identifying acid reflux triggers.
In your journal, be sure to describe your symptoms along with when they occur.
Adjust Your Sleeping Position
Sleeping in a slightly more upright position can help prevent acid reflux symptoms.
Avoid Alcohol and Cigarettes
Alcohol andcigarettesare both known to trigger headaches.
Treatment
There are no treatments that are specific to acid reflux headaches.
However, research indicates that controlling both headaches and GERD can help alleviate the symptoms of these conditions.
Talk with your healthcare provider about a comprehensive approach to treatment that addresses both headaches and GERD.
There areOTC and prescription medicationsthat can be used to treat GERD.
Reglan is used to treat stomach and gastrointestinal issues, including GERD.
It is also used, independent of that, to treat migraines, particularly during pregnancy.
Talk to your healthcare provider about whether Reglan might be helpful to treat your GERD and headaches.
Its important to manage both conditions by seeking medical attention.
A healthcare provider can help you determine what treatments and lifestyle changes will be most effective for you.
Having GERD can increase your risk ofesophageal cancer.
If you start to experience signs of esophageal cancerlike trouble swallowing or hoarsenessreach out to your healthcare provder immediately.
Summary
Your brain and your gastrointestinal tract are closely linked by the gut-brain axis.
As a result, acid reflux or GERD can cause acid reflux headaches.
Although acid reflux and GERD are not life-threatening, symptoms can be very uncomfortable.
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