FAQs about Heartburn and Acid Reflux

Monday, August 18 2008

Heartburn, often resulting from acid reflux disease, is a problem that plagues one in 10 people daily, and millions of others from time to time. This problem can be controlled through the use of Nexium, available through secure online pharmacy Viamedic.com. The following points address some of the questions many people have about heartburn, acid reflux, Nexium and Viamedic.com.

Q: Are acid reflux and heartburn the same thing?

A: Not exactly. Acid reflux disease, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), is a chronic disease; heartburn is the resultant main symptom of that disease. Heartburn is caused by reflux or regurgitation of stomach acid, and sometimes foods, into the esophagus, which carries food from the throat to the stomach.

Q: How does this happen? Why does food come back up?

A: Sometimes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is sort of like a valve, relaxes too often and opens up more often than it should. When this happens, the open sphincter allows harsh acids and stomach juices to move back up into the esophagus.

Q: I never heard of acid reflux until recently. Is this some new problem?

A: It’s not new, but people have only been calling it that since the ‘80’s. Acid reflux has more than likely existed for as long as heartburn. It’s called acid reflux disease because that term fits the problem, which is chronic reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, where it can create heartburn and damage the lining of the esophagus. Nexium, available from ViaMedic.com, helps limit how much acid is generated in the stomach so that reflux is lessened.

Q: Are there other symptoms of acid reflux bedsides just heartburn?

A: A nagging, bitter taste in the mouth from acid, food or drink coming back into the throat is one symptom, and it is generally accompanied by heartburn. Other symptoms can include an upset stomach, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, and a persistent cough. If you have chest pain that does not seem like a symptom of heartburn, immediate medical attention is recommended.

Q: Can Nexium cure GERD?

A: There is no complete cure for acid reflux disease. Acid reflux disease is normally a chronic condition, but can normally be managed with through lifestyle changes and regular use of Nexium.

Q: Can Nexium repair any damage that may have already been done to my esophagus?

A: Yes, Nexium can help heal the esophagus. The role of Nexium is to limit the acid produced in the stomach, and as the acid is limited and reflux is lessened or stopped, the esophagus has time to heal from any erosion it may have suffered. Nexium may also reduce the chance of a stomach ulcer forming from continuous use of pain medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen and, again by limiting acid production.

Q: Are there side effects with Nexium?

A: Nexium can sometimes produce such side effects as diarrhea, headaches and abdominal pain.

 Viamedic.com is a leading reputable online pharmacy, and our first concern is always the welfare of our customers. If you are experiencing heartburn and symptoms of GERD, call Viamedic.com to find out how Nexium might be able to help restore the quality of life you deserve.