Why does gerd cause back pain

What causes GERD? Some specific indications that you should schedule an appointment are: If you take antacids two or more times a week, If you take heartburn medicines other than antacids, If heartburn interferes with your daily activities, If your symptoms usually occur after meals, If your symptoms interfere with your sleep, or If medicine only helps relieve your symptoms for short periods of time.

Besides the burning sensation, are there other complications involved? How is GERD treated? Are there risks associated with proton pump inhibitor use? Avoid all tobacco products. Eliminate or cut down on caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, peppermint, fri ed and fatty foods and anything else that you find causes your heartburn. Eat smaller meals and eat more frequently than three times a day—but not within three hours of going to bed.

Wear loose, comfortable clothes to avoid pressure on your stomach. Exercise and lose weight, if appropriate. Be aware that sit-ups and leg lifts can make acid reflux worse. Raise the head of your bed or mattress six to eight inches to help keep acid in the stomach. This works better than simply wedging pillows under your head, which causes you to bend at the waist, pushing fluid back up into the esophagus.

For More Information Find a Location. Schedule an Appointment. When the pain is the result of other underlying health problems, treatments will vary considerably. Antibiotics are necessary to treat a kidney infection. Other ulcer and GERD medications include drugs that are used to block or reduce stomach acid production. Most causes of back pain can be managed, if not permanently cured. Regular exercise, maintaining a good posture, and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent back problems.

Back pain after eating is likely caused by referred pain. Pay attention to other symptoms that may help your doctor diagnose your condition. If your back pain is caused by GERD or ulcers, you may need to make lifestyle adjustments. Those can include changes to your diet, reducing your weight, exercise, or medications. You should be able to maintain a good quality of life and limit the pain in your back and elsewhere with treatment and lifestyle changes.

If the cause of your back pain is related to posture or muscle strain, prevention will come down to keeping your back muscles strong and flexible.

If you participated in physical therapy, you should continue to do the exercises and stretches that you learned. Activities such as yoga and tai chi may also help with posture, muscle toning, and flexibility. Preventing heartburn and ulcer complications in the future may come down to simply avoiding foods that trigger those reactions.

Greasy, fatty, and spicy foods may have to be avoided or kept to a minimum. Acidic and caffeinated beverages also negatively impact some people with GERD.

You may also need to avoid or limit alcohol consumption. When should you see a doctor for bloating and back pain? Learn what causes these symptoms and how to manage pain at home.

Back pain is common, and it can vary in severity and type. It can range from sharp and stabbing to dull and aching. Your back is a support and…. What does abdominal bloating look like? Check out photos of abdominal bloating and read what may be causing your bloating and pain. Abdominal bloating…. Your posture has a major impact on your health, but most people don't know how to sit with good posture. There might be another medication or treatment option that can provide adequate back pain relief without worsening GERD symptoms.

Stress can cause GERD in some people. In addition to the discomfort, chronic pain can prevent a person from working or doing activities they enjoy, such as playing a sport or going out with friends. This ongoing stress may increase the risk for developing GERD. If you feel as though your back pain is isolating or a challenge to manage, consider talking with people who may be able to offer additional tips.

Some ideas include:. It can also help to be honest with family members and friends about how your back is feeling. They may be willing to pitch in and help with a chore or run an errand when needed. See Stress-Related Back Pain. Some people with debilitating back pain may become less active and potentially eat more, which can increase the risk for acid reflux and GERD.