Medications associated with a 70% rise in migraine incidents
Acid reflux, characterized by chest pain, burning throat, and sour mouth, affects millions of adults in the United States, with estimates suggesting between 20% and over a third of the population may experience this condition. Despite being widely prescribed, acid reflux medications may pose more risks than benefits, as research links them to a higher danger of dementia, diabetes, B12 deficiency, C. diff infection, and increased stroke risk.
A study in the Neurology Clinical Practice journal now suggests that your acid reflux medication could be contributing to your migraines. Researchers analyzed health data from approximately 12,000 participants to examine the likelihood of migraines or severe headaches among those taking prescription-strength acid reflux drugs, including proton pump inhibitors, H2 blockers, and antacids like Tums.
The results showed that:
- 25% of people taking proton pump inhibitors suffered migraines or severe headaches, compared to 19% of non-users.
- Similar percentages applied to H2 blocker users (25%) and non-users (20%).
- Antacid users, including Tums, had a 22% chance of severe headaches, compared to 20% of non-users.
Overall, proton pump inhibitors were associated with a 70% increased risk, H2 blockers with a 40% higher risk, and antacids with a 30% increased risk of migraines.
Margaret Slavin, the study's lead author and an Associate Professor of Nutrition and Food Science at the University of Maryland, warns against overprescribing these drugs and encourages exploring natural solutions with fewer side effects. Some alternatives include digestive enzymes like bromelain and papain to support protein and gluten digestion, curcumin to provide relief from indigestion symptoms, apple cider vinegar to balance stomach acid, and dietary changes to alkalize the body.
While it's essential to manage acid reflux to prevent the potentially serious condition Barrett's esophagus, it's crucial to consider the potential side effects of medications. Always consult a healthcare provider to discuss medication options and manage any health concerns.
- The study in the Neurology Clinical Practice journal suggests that taking acid reflux medications, such as proton pump inhibitors, H2 blockers, and antacids like Tums, could increase the risk of experiencing migraines or severe headaches.
- Proton pump inhibitors were found to be associated with a 70% increased risk, while H2 blockers showed a 40% higher risk, and antacids a 30% increased risk of migraines compared to non-users.
- Margaret Slavin, the study's lead author, advises against overprescribing these drugs and encourages exploring alternatives such as digestive enzymes, curcumin, apple cider vinegar, and dietary changes for managing acid reflux with fewer side effects.
- It's critical to consider the potential side effects of acid reflux medications, such as increased risks of migraines, and to consult a healthcare provider for discussing medication options and managing any health concerns related to medical conditions like acid reflux, mental health, neurological disorders, or overall health-and-wellness.
