Understanding the Link Between GERD and Sinusitis

If you’re one of the many people who suffer from acid reflux, more formally known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), you might be all too familiar with the classic symptoms — heartburn, regurgitation, and chest discomfort. But for some, those symptoms may evolve, leading to less obvious and more frustrating issues like chronic sinus infections, post-nasal drip, or even a nagging cough. You might not immediately link your sinus congestion to your digestive issues, but the two may be more connected than you think.

At Kaplan Sinus Relief, we regularly see patients whose acid reflux symptoms have migrated upward, affecting their nasal passages, ears, and even their Eustachian tubes. Understanding the relationship between GERD and sinusitis is a critical step toward lasting relief, and knowing which type of specialist to consult can make a big difference in your outcome.

If your reflux symptoms are affecting more than just your stomach, don’t wait. Contact Kaplan Sinus Relief today and start your path to relief.

What is GERD?

GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a chronic condition in which stomach acid regularly flows back into the esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach). This backwash, or acid reflux, can irritate the lining of your esophagus and lead to symptoms such as:

• Heartburn
• Regurgitation
• Sore throat
• Chronic cough
• Hoarseness
• Chest pain
• Difficulty swallowing

In many cases, lifestyle changes or over-the-counter medications can manage GERD. However, when acid reflux becomes chronic or severe, it can begin to affect areas beyond the esophagus.

Can GERD affect your ears and sinuses?

Yes, GERD can have a surprising impact on both your ears and sinuses. The esophagus runs near the upper respiratory system, and when acid travels up high enough, it can reach the back of the throat and even the nasal passages. This condition is sometimes called laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), a form of GERD where the acid reaches higher into the throat.

When that happens, the sensitive linings of your nasal and sinus cavities can become inflamed, leading to symptoms such as:

• Chronic post-nasal drip
• Nasal congestion
• Chronic sinus infections
• Ear fullness or pressure
• Sore throat or burning sensation

Since the ears, nose, and throat are all connected via the Eustachian tubes, inflammation in one area can create problems in another.

Can GERD trigger sinusitis?

Chronic acid reflux can indirectly contribute to sinusitis, especially if the acid reaches the nasal cavity and causes irritation or swelling. Sinusitis refers to the inflammation of the sinus linings, which can trap mucus and lead to bacterial infections.

Here’s how GERD may trigger or worsen sinusitis:

1. Irritation from acid exposure. Stomach acid is highly corrosive. When it backs up into the throat and nasal passages, it can irritate the mucous membranes, leading to swelling and reduced drainage of the sinuses.
2. Increased mucus production. Can GERD cause mucus production? Certainly. The body often responds to irritation by producing more mucus. This excess can block normal sinus drainage pathways and create the perfect environment for a sinus infection.
3. Coughing and throat clearing. Reflux often leads to chronic coughing or frequent throat clearing, which can worsen sinus inflammation or even cause strain on sinus tissues.
4. Nasal blockage. Chronic inflammation from reflux may lead to persistent nasal congestion, which can block sinus openings and encourage infections.

So, while GERD may not directly cause sinusitis in all patients, it can definitely set the stage for sinus-related issues, especially in people who already have allergies or sinus sensitivities.

Can acid reflux cause blocked Eustachian tube dysfunction?

The Eustachian tubes connect the middle ear to the back of the nose and help regulate ear pressure. When they become inflamed or blocked, it can cause symptoms like ear fullness, popping sensations, muffled hearing, and dizziness or imbalance.

Acid reflux can contribute to Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) by inflaming the area where these tubes open into the throat and nasal cavity. Repeated exposure to stomach acid can cause tissue swelling and interfere with normal drainage and pressure regulation. This is especially common in people who experience reflux while lying down or sleeping.

If you’re struggling with ear pressure, muffled hearing, and sinus congestion — and you also deal with heartburn or reflux — GERD could be the hidden link tying your symptoms together.

Should I see an ENT or gastroenterologist for GERD?

If your GERD symptoms are primarily digestive (heartburn, regurgitation, indigestion), a gastroenterologist is typically your first stop. They can evaluate your esophagus, stomach, and digestive function through tests like an upper endoscopy or pH monitoring.

However, if your reflux is causing complications in the upper respiratory tract — such as chronic sinusitis, post-nasal drip, cough, or Eustachian tube dysfunction — it may be time to involve an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist.

At Kaplan Sinus Relief, we specialize in treating the upper airway complications of GERD. Many patients come to us after seeing a gastroenterologist but still experience lingering ENT-related symptoms.

What can an ENT do for acid reflux?

An ENT can’t “cure” acid reflux — that’s within the GI specialist’s realm — but we can help treat the complications that arise from it.

At Kaplan Sinus Relief, we can:

• Evaluate your nasal and sinus inflammation through endoscopy and imaging
• Identify signs of LPR (laryngopharyngeal reflux) or reflux-related sinus inflammation
• Address chronic sinusitis that may have been triggered or worsened by GERD
• Treat Eustachian tube dysfunction if reflux is contributing to ear pressure or fullness
• Offer minimally invasive procedures like balloon sinuplasty to improve sinus drainage and reduce symptoms
• Collaborate with your gastroenterologist to build a more effective treatment plan

Our team understands that reflux doesn’t just affect your stomach — it can disrupt your entire head and neck system. That’s why we focus on treating the whole picture, not just isolated symptoms.

GERD symptoms causing trouble elsewhere? Call Kaplan Sinus Relief.

When GERD goes beyond the digestive tract, it’s easy to feel like you’re chasing symptoms with no clear solution. Maybe you’ve tried antacids, changed your diet, or even seen a gastroenterologist, but you’re still dealing with chronic sinus infections, nasal congestion, or ear pressure. That’s where Kaplan Sinus Relief comes in.

We specialize in identifying and treating the upper airway consequences of GERD, including sinusitis and ear dysfunction. Our approach is rooted in minimally invasive solutions that are tailored to your needs, helping you find real relief without unnecessary surgery or long recovery times.

Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:

• A comprehensive exam to determine whether GERD is affecting your sinuses or ears
• Customized treatment plans, which may include sinus procedures like balloon sinuplasty
• Coordination with GI specialists to ensure a complete, collaborative treatment plan
• Long-term relief from sinus symptoms caused or worsened by acid reflux

If you suspect your problems related to GERD and sinusitis are linked, or if no one has been able to explain your chronic sinus and ear issues, contact Kaplan Sinus Relief today to schedule a consultation. Whether your reflux has just started affecting your sinuses or you’ve been battling chronic symptoms for years, our team can help you breathe easier, hear more clearly, and live more comfortably.

More Helpful Articles by Kaplan Sinus Relief:

• Can Sinus Infections Cause Jaw Pain?
• What to Do for a Severe Sinus Allergy Attack
• What Are the Long-Term Side Effects of Mouth Breathing?
• What Is Rebound Congestion?
• Sinus Health Tips for the Cold and Flu Season