As If a Migraine Wasn't Enough

When is enough pain enough? In a recent study researchers have discovered that many migraine sufferers also have to contend with heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In fact, 22% of patients surveyed were diagnosed with GERD, 12% with heartburn, and 16% reported having heartburn symptoms but hadn't been formally diagnosed. The article, published in the Journal of Headache and Pain, mentions that many migraneurs are on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Given the tendency of NSAIDs to worsen symptoms of GERD and heartburn, even contributing to the development of ulcers, patients and physicians should take time to discuss not only migraines, but associated conditions like GERD.

The abstract of this research article on migraines and GERD is available for free.

Read more about GERD on About.com.