Pregnancy, Post Nasal Drip and GERD

Post Nasal Drip has a habit of interrupting ones conversation or way of life. It hampers ones environment and health and can cause nausea and bacterial infections in the intestinal tract. When an individual has allergies it causes an excess of mucus to be produced. This excess of mucus cannot drain correctly at times and flows down the back of the throat, causing post nasal drip.

The key to relief in this case would be to have the allergies or any possible irritation treated before it becomes post nasal drip as in some cases, mucus may contain bacteria, mold or even viruses. These factors can change the chemical make-up of mucus resulting in it becoming acidic. Post nasal drip can develop into a serious condition with serious consequences if it is not treated correctly.

Relationship between Post nasal Drip, Nausea, GERD

One really interesting fact about post nasal drip is that it can cause an acid build up in the stomach which results in a reflux of the stomach acids.

Pregnant women have a tendency to suffer with GERD due to the increase pressure caused by the baby pushing on the stomach.

The baby also has a part to play in giving the new mom gas, as high levels of the hormone progesterone can slow the muscular contractions that help move food through the intestinal tract. This causes a build-up of gases and pressure.
One’s diet plays an important role relieving gas and acid reflux.

Post Nasal Drip, especially mucus that is infected and as a result become acidic in nature is one of the symptoms that can result in acid reflux and GERD.

Why does GERD cause Heartburn?

When one eats incorrect foods or has excess infected post nasal drip draining from the sinus cavities and nasal passages into the stomach, the contents of the stomach is made more acidic.
When the lower esophageal sphincter which acts as a lid keeping the stomach contents in, does not close properly, acid is allowed to rise up the esophagus. Acid is very corrosive and therefore causes pain in the chest area. This pain is often referred to as heartburn.

Symptoms of GERD

1. Soreness at the back of the throat
2. A scratchy dry throat
3. A red inflamed throat
4. A burning sensation felt in the chest/heart region which usually occurs after meals
5. Restlessness after meals
6. Swallowing becomes difficult
7. A bad breath
8. A foul, almost acidic taste in one’s mouth

Foods that you should or shouldn't avoid

Tips

• Try eating little meals over a time period instead of one big meal.
• Don’t eat 2 hours before going to bed.
• Should you suffer with GERD, try sleeping with your head elevated.
  
• Try to avoid wearing any tight of constrictive clothing.

Additional topics

• Pregnancy and Post Nasal Drip
• Pregancy and Sinusitis