Acid Reflux And Sinus Infections

Did you know that acid reflux can affect your nasal health? More specifically, a type of reflux that mainly affects the throat is called laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). This occurs when stomach acid and digestive enzymes flow back up into the throat and larynx.

LPR mainly affects the throat, but it can also cause symptoms in the nose and sinuses.

Can acid reflux cause post-nasal drainage?

Acid in the stomach is a good thing because it is what helps break down food and starts the digestive process. However, our throat, sinuses, and nasal passages have a normal pH and cannot tolerate acid very well. So, when you have acid backing up into these areas, it is very irritating to the tissue. This irritation causes inflammation, swelling, and excess mucus production and can disrupt the bacterial balance in the nasal passages, leading to an increased risk of sinus infections. LPR can also cause post-nasal drainage, chronic throat clearing, cough, and sinus pressure. 

The number one complaint of patients with LPR is throat clearing. Most assume it is due to sinus drainage, but it is usually due to throat irritation from LPR.

The most important thing to know is that 40-50% of patients with LPR will not have heartburn or indigestion symptoms. Many of my patients won’t accept the diagnosis of LPR since they don’t have heartburn. It is only after they improve on LPR treatment that they begin to understand.

While LPR can cause sinus problems, not everyone with LPR will experience sinus symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms of sinus problems, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and the best course of treatment. Treatment for LPR typically involves lifestyle changes such as avoiding trigger foods, losing weight if necessary, and elevating the head of the bed at night. Medications such as proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers may also be prescribed.

How can vitamins and supplements help reflux? 

While there is no specific vitamin or supplement that can cure reflux, certain vitamins and supplements may help alleviate symptoms and support digestive health. Here are some examples:

Vitamin D for digestive health

Vitamin D is important for digestive health and has been shown to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. Low vitamin D levels have been associated with an increased risk of acid reflux.

Vitamin B12 for the digestive system

Vitamin B12 is important for the proper function of the digestive system and can help reduce symptoms of reflux.

Magnesium for muscle and nerve function

Magnesium is important for muscle and nerve function and may help alleviate reflux symptoms by promoting relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).

Probiotics for bacteria

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in the gut and can help improve digestive health. They may help reduce reflux symptoms by promoting a healthy balance of bacteria in the digestive tract.

Melatonin helps regulate sleep

Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep, but it also has antioxidant properties and can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. It may be helpful for reducing symptoms of reflux, particularly at night.

It's important to note that while these vitamins and supplements may help manage symptoms of reflux, they should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. It's always best to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen.

Several books are available that explain LPR and its causes and suggest diet changes to help with the problem. One of my favorites is:

Till next week,

Jim Atkins, MD, Follow me on Twitter.
Lori Atkins, PA-C

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All information should be considered educational and not medical advice.

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