About Acid Reflux Disease
Here's some background on what happens when you have acid reflux disease
Your stomach is filled with acid that helps digest the food you eat. Your stomach is built to
handle this acid. But your esophagus (the tube that carries food to your stomach) isn't.
So when acid backs up into your esophagus—an event called "acid reflux"—it can
sometimes cause the painful, burning sensation known as heartburn or other symptoms.
If you experience persistent heartburn pain on 2 or more days a week, despite treating the
symptoms and changing your diet, it could be acid reflux disease. It's important to talk to
your doctor about your acid reflux symptoms and possible treatment options.
For some people, acid reflux disease can mean more than just dealing with symptoms. Over time,
frequent, recurrent acid reflux can potentially cause damage to the delicate lining of the
esophagus. About 1 in 3 acid reflux sufferers may have this condition, called erosive
esophagitis. Only a doctor can tell if you have this damage.
The good news is that NEXIUM can help relieve heartburn and
for people with erosive esophagitis, it can heal the possible damage acid reflux
disease can cause over time. Most damage heals in 4 to 8 weeks. Your results with NEXIUM may vary.
Ask your doctor if your heartburn could be acid reflux disease, and if NEXIUM is right for you.
(Make a list of acid reflux symptoms
for your doctor visit.)
Next: Acid Reflux Symptoms