If there is something that can ruin your day, let alone your plans and goals, it is a headache. Headache, a common occurrence among people, can arise due to many reasons, be it the cold weather, loud music or hunger. Sometimes, it can also occur due to gastric issues, hence called gastric headache.
This type of headache can be very painful. If you ever had it, your priority must have been to ease the pain. This blog will provide you with a few tips that can relieve the pain of gastric headaches. We will also be talking about its causes in this blog post.
But first things first, how would you recognise a gastric headache?
A gastric headache usually resembles a normal headache, but it may differ in intensity. It is usually dull and may be more intense than a normal headache. It is also characterised by a sensation of pressure or fullness around the temples, forehead, or at the base of the skull. It may last anywhere between 1-72 hours.
It is usually accompanied by other gastric symptoms such as vomiting, nausea or loss of appetite. It is caused when excess gas in the digestive system creates pressure and pain in the head. Let’s discuss the causes in detail.
Some causes of gastric headaches
Gastric headaches can have many causes. These include
Excess gas:
As mentioned above, excess gas is the leading cause of gastric headaches. This may happen when you consume excess food in one go or when your digestion is slow.
Bloating:
When the stomach or intestines carry excess gas and become swollen (called bloating), they can add pressure on nearby organs, including nerves and blood vessels This pressure can cause headaches.
Referred pain:
Our bodies can misinterpret pain signals. This means they may identify pain coming from one area as coming from another. When it is gastric headaches, the discomfort in the digestive system can be mistakenly perceived as head pain.
Sensitivity to gas:
Some people may be more sensitive to gas in their digestive system, making them more susceptible to developing headaches in response to gas buildup.
Food intolerances:
Certain food intolerances, such as fructose malabsorption or lactose intolerance, can cause gas production, leading to headaches.
Gastrointestinal disorders:
Underlying gastrointestinal conditions such as IBS, irritable Bowel Syndrome can cause chronic gas-related discomfort, which may give rise to headaches.
Swallowing air:
How do you swallow air? It can happen when you drink or eat too quickly. It may also happen when you chew gum or use straws. Talking while eating can also make you swallow air. This can cause a buildup of gas.
Stress and anxiety:
Stress can affect digestion, and may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. It can ultimately become a trigger for some people.
Tips to overcome gastric headache
Here are a few tips that can help you overcome gastric headache:
Take a walk:
Taking a walk after consuming a meal can help with digestion. You will less likely experience an influx if you go for a walk after lunch or dinner. Avoid sitting or lying for hours after consuming a meal.
Do not overeat
When you eat more than you should, your digestive system struggles with processing the food. This may cause an excess of gas. Avoid overeating to avoid gastric headaches.
Have peppermint or ginger tea:
Peppermint tea can relax the gastrointestinal tract and relieve gas-related headaches. Ginger tea can also help as it contains anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate bloating and ease headaches.
Have fennel seeds (saunf):
Fennel seeds are known to reduce gas. Chew a teaspoon of fennel seeds or have funnel tea after meals.
Apply a warm compress:
Consider applying a warm compress to your forehead to relax tense muscles and ease the pain.
Deep breathing:
Practising deep breathing exercises reduces tension and relaxes the body, which may help with gas and headache symptoms.
Massage your abdomen:
Massage your abdomen in a circular motion. Be gentle while you are at it. This can promote the movement of gas, providing relief.
Hydration:
Drinking an adequate amount of water can promote regular bowel movements, preventing gas buildup.
Avoid foods that cause gas:
You may consider avoiding food items that can cause gas. These include carbonated beverages, beans, green-leafy vegetables and artificial sweeteners.
Probiotics:
You may take probiotic supplements or consume probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt to reduce gas and promote a healthy gut.
Closing thoughts
Embracing a mindful approach to your lifestyle and dietary choices can be pivotal in overcoming gastric headaches. Prioritise a well-balanced diet, stay adequately hydrated, and manage stress through relaxation techniques. Consistency in these practices, along with consulting a healthcare professional for personalised advice, will help you alleviate gastric headaches, promoting a healthier and more comfortable life.
