The Heartburn-Stress Factor

Taming stress and the acid reflux symptoms it can cause.

The more stressed we are, the more likely we are to suffer from heartburn associated with acid reflux disease. There are many possible reasons why an increase in stress can cause an increase in heartburn pain.

When we are stressed, our bodies naturally send more blood to the muscles to help provide the extra energy we may need to manage the stress. But when this happens, less blood travels to our digestive system, which may slow down the digestive process. Slower digestion causes food and harsh digestive acids to remain in the stomach much longer. Not only can this process increase our chances of experiencing heartburn, but it can also lead to bloating and constipation.

It is also common for people who are stressed to do things that may trigger heartburn. Many people try to comfort themselves by eating fried, fatty, or spicy foods. Some people smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol, and stress is often an excuse for not exercising and forgetting to take medication. All of these behaviors may contribute to heartburn.

Are you worried? Worry and anxiety can increase heartburn. Instead of worrying, take these few simple steps to help reduce your stress and distress.

  1. Eat smart. Stick to foods that you know will not trigger your heartburn
  2. Drink smart. Avoid drinks that are known to spark heartburn, such as alcoholic, caffeinated, or carbonated beverages
  3. Toss your smokes. Quit, or at least reduce the number of cigarettes you smoke. Cigarettes are known to aggravate heartburn
  4. Breathe deeply. Concentrate on relieving stress by breathing deeply from your stomach, not your chest
  5. Stretch and relax. Stand up and stretch each of your muscle groups and focus on releasing the tension in every part of your body
  6. Exercise and enjoy. Staying active can help make you feel much better. Just be sure to pick an activity that does not aggravate your symptoms
  7. Be fun and funny. Smile and laugh. It's a great way to calm down and help keep the stress and symptoms away

Find out more about the connection between heartburn and stress.

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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.

Before taking NEXIUM, tell your doctor if you are taking atazanavir, nelfinavir, saquinivir, digoxin, iron salts, ketoconazole, voriconazole, cilostazol, or warfarin.

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.

Please read the full Prescribing 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.