Acid reflux can cause a variety of problems for your sinuses. You might not think of your sinuses as having
anything to do with your stomach acid, but they are connected because there is nothing to separate your nose from your throat and your throat from your stomach. Acid reflux can become so severe that you may require surgery. Tell your doctor if you experience chronic or frequent acid reflux.
Acid Reflux
Acid reflux can happen to anyone at any age — even infants. Your diet plays an important role in the control of acid reflux because certain foods can trigger or worsen symptoms. Physical activity also plays a crucial role, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. When the acid in your stomach back flows, it comes up your esophagus, which can allow the acid into your mouth and even sinuses.
Sinuses
Since there is nothing that can partition off your throat from your mouth and nose, acid that travels from your stomach to your throat can affect your sinus cavity. The stomach acid can then collect in the sinuses and middle ear, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. Stomach acid can be so corrosive and damaging that it can actually cause a change in your esophageal lining, known as Barrett’s esophagus. If this type of change can happen to the esophagus, just imagine the pain it can cause for your sinuses. Acid tends to cause a burning sensation, even before it begins to back flow, which is what often feels like heart burn. When the same acid reaches your nasal passageways, it can cause extreme irritation and burning.
Sinus Irritation
Sinus irritation, or sinusitis, is inflammation within the sinus cavity. Typically sinusitis is caused by infection, according to TeensHealth, but the condition can occur for a number of other reasons. Once the nasal lining becomes inflamed and irritated, it makes it easier for viruses and bacteria to invade your sinus cavity. Signs of sinusitis include persistent dull pain or swelling around your eyes, tenderness or painful pressure around your cheekbones, sinus headache, a sense of pressure in your head, pain in your upper teeth and bad breath, even after you’ve brushed your teeth.
Prevention/Solution
If you suffer from acid reflux, avoid foods that tend to trigger your symptoms such as caffeinated foods and drinks, hot or spicy foods and fatty foods. Preventing acid reflux can reduce the risk of Barrett’s esophagus and sinus pain. If you still develop acid reflux, talk to your doctor about prescription medications that may help with your condition to help reduce stomach acid.
References
- American Academy of Otolaryngology: GERD and LPR; Dec. 2010
- American Academy of Otolaryngology: Fact Sheet: Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD)
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Heartburn; Harvey Simon, MD; June 2009
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER) and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD); May 2007
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