Getting Prescription Nexium for Heartburn

Heartburn is a painful condition where some of the stomach acid rises back up into the esophagus, burning it and making one miserable. (This is caused by a weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter, which is supposed to stay tight to keep the acidic contents of the stomach inside the stomach itself, rather than allowing splash up.)

Other symptoms include a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, a persistent cough, and difficulty swallowing. Heartburn can be mistaken for a heart attack, because the heartburn is often felt in the chest area. It is wise to treat heartburn so that it doesn't mask the disturbing pain of a heart attack. A sufferer can take Nexium for heartburn if they have the condition on two or more days a week.

Benefits of Nexium for Heartburn

If a person suffers from the symptoms of heartburn, like the burning in the chest, or throat, or that bitter or sour taste in the mouth, they should consult their doctor. Often, the doctor will want to do some tests to clarify the cause of the symptoms.

The doctor will probably suggest some changes that the person can and should make to their lifestyle, like eliminating some foods (spicy foods, citrus foods, tomatoes and tomato sauces, coffee…) and other habits like smoking and drinking alcohol. The doctor will also probably recommend taking an antacid for relief of heartburn quickly. Some doctors prescribe Nexium for heartburn, after the test results are in. Nexium works great for heartburn in many instances, and many people appreciate the relief it provides.

One real benefit to taking Nexium is that, unlike many other treatments - such as an antacid - the Nexium can help heal the irritated tissues. Taking Nexium for heartburn can really help heal the irritated esophagus. Particularly effective is taking Nexium for heartburn when it is caused by acid reflux disease, where the esophagus is damaged from the acid from the stomach rising into the esophagus. When using Nexium for heartburn, the damage to the esophagus can be healed in approximately four to eight weeks.

To be able to take Nexium for heartburn, your doctor must prescribe it. The doctor will also monitor the use of Nexium, to be sure it is being taken as prescribed and that it is being effective in controlling heartburn. Nexium works for heartburn by limiting or controlling the amount of acid from the stomach that can move to the esophagus. It is usually taken an hour before a meal.