A burning sensation in your stomach and a stuffy nose seem to be miles apart but do you realize that there can be a connection between acid reflux and sinus problems?

Acid reflux or GERD is when stomach acids - hydrocloric acid or (HCl) to be exact - back up into the esophagus. This acid whose job is to digest food is one of the harshest substances around but the stomach is designed to house it. The esophagus, however is not designed to house it and when it gets up into your esophagus, your body knows this is not the way things should normally function and it sends signals out to the rest of your body.

This signal or warning that is generated tells the body to protect itself. One of the things the body may do in response to this is produce extra mucus. This attempts to take the caustic nature away a from the burning acid and prevent acid for moving further into the body. Ironically, at this point you might not even have heartburn!

The connection between acid reflux and sinus problems comes when the body starts making this extra mucus in the sinuses. But the sinuses are close to the esophagus you can see why the body would want to try to protect it from the acids moving up into there. You sinuses are like a big filter for the air that you breathe and the thin layer of mucus that's in there works to trap pollutants as well as moisten the air. However, if there is too much mucus produced, the sinuses can't drain properly thus causing sinusitis.

If you frequently have acid reflux and sinus problems together, it might be something to consider that the two are related. You want to treat your acid reflux properly don't just mask the symptoms with antacids. Of course, you should see your doctor to have it properly diagnosed. Then you may want to embark on some dietary and lifestyle changes.

In many cases, getting rid of acid reflux requires medicine but in many others you can simply watch what you eat. Avoid spicy foods, fatty foods and fried foods as well as chocolate, caffeinated beverages, tomato sauces and carbonated beverages. Don't lay down right after you eat and wear clothing that is loose on the middle.

You can also do a few things with your sinuses to help relieve the sinusitis. Try getting a Neti pot which is a strange device that looks almost like a little watering can. You fill us with warm water and Saline and pour it up to your nose to flush out your sinus cavities and nasal passages. I know it sounds funny (and looks funny when you're doing it), but many people swear it works wonders. It could help flush out the excess mucus and get your sinuses working properly again.

While there may be a connection between acid reflux and sinus problems there also may be no connection so just because you have both doesn't mean the two are related. Making your best effort to treat each one will bring your body back into good health and get your immune system functioning better so that your days can be healthier and happier.