Acid Reflux Damage and Erosive Esophagitis (EE)

Learn how acid reflux may cause damage

Stomach acid is harsh, and the lining of your esophagus is delicate. That's why you may feel heartburn pain when acid backs up (refluxes) into your esophagus. If acid reflux continues without being treated, it can cause tissue damage over time in the lining of the esophagus, resulting in a condition called erosive esophagitis (EE).

If erosive esophagitis (EE) is present, there are usually breaks or erosions in the lining of the esophagus. EE is a potentially serious condition, but if the right treatment is given, the erosions can heal.

What you should know about erosive esophagitis (EE)

  • Only a doctor can tell if you have erosions in the esophagus and how serious they are. You can't tell solely by how you feel
  • Even if your heartburn pain is only mild, you could have acid reflux damage
  • If EE is not treated, it can lead to other serious conditions
  • NEXIUM can heal damage that acid reflux disease may cause. Most erosions in the esophagus heal in about 4 to 8 weeks. Your results with NEXIUM may vary. Learn more about how NEXIUM heals

Remember, only your doctor can determine if you have acid reflux disease or erosive esophagitis and prescribe an appropriate treatment. So make an appointment to talk with your doctor, and ask if NEXIUM may be right for you.

Next: Acid Reflux Treatment Options

Approved Uses for NEXIUM

NEXIUM is prescribed to treat the symptoms of acid reflux disease, which typically include persistent heartburn on 2 or more days per week, despite treatment and change of diet.

For many people, NEXIUM is also prescribed to heal damage to the esophagus called erosive esophagitis. This damage may be caused over time from stomach acid wearing away the lining of the esophagus. Only a doctor can diagnose this condition. With NEXIUM, most erosions heal in 4 to 8 weeks. Your results with NEXIUM may vary.

Important Safety Information About NEXIUM

In adults 18 and older, side effects with NEXIUM include headache, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

In children 1 to 17 years of age, side effects with NEXIUM include headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and sleepiness.

Symptom relief does not rule out the presence of other serious stomach conditions.

Please read the Important Product Information and discuss it with your doctor or health care professional.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.