Nexium is a prescription drug for GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) or heartburn that occurs more than 3 days per week, indicating a chronic problem.
The theory behind Nexium is that it will suppress the over-abundance of stomach acid that is causing the heartburn and reflux.
However, in many cases, this is not true, especially for people over 40. As we age, we begin to produce too little stomach acid (hydrochloric acid, or HCL), which produces the same symptoms as too much stomach acid – the burping up of food or liquid, chest pain, and the other discomforts of “acid indigestion. Our natural stomach acid is what helps us digest our meals, along with amino acids and other enzymes produced by our stomach, liver and pancreas. In addition, if we’ve had other illnesses, we may be short on this total digestive enzyme compound.
Therefore, Nexium side effects can include dependency on the drug because it is forcing our system to produce even less natural stomach acids and enzymes and make for even worse upper and lower digestive problems.
Also, as I found out from my personal experience taking Nexium, Nexium side effects can range outside the digestive system. The pill only comes in one or two dosage measurements. I.e, a small person like myself (only 110 pounds) may be given the same dosage as a 250 pound person, which is what happened to me.
From the first pill, I began getting shakes and dizziness. My legs got so weak I could barely stand. I also lost my appetite and began to lose weight. And, the longer I was on it – even though these initial Nexium side effects disappered, the worse my digestion got, and I experienced anxiety as well.
Other documented Nexium side effects include: nausea, gas, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea, headache and dry mouth. Allergic reactions, blurred vision, urinary problems and aggravated arthritis and fibromyalgia symptoms are also known to occur.
Nexium side effects, as with any prescription drug, can cause less absorption of vital nutrients, leading to a weakened immune system and weight loss (as I experienced) and further digestive problems.
Want to avoid Nexium side effects?
I found that there are several cold-processed forms of aloe vera juice, combined with amino acids and soothing herbs such as marshmallow root, camomille and more can alleviate acid reflux quickly, and even painful serious GERD with several months’ use. It did not only mask the symptoms but helped my entire digestive system to improve.
Digestive enzyme supplements taken with meals also helps. Digestive enzymes include Papain (a papaya derivative), Bromelain (a non-citrus bioflavanoid) and others.
How do you know if you have too little or too much stomach acid? Find a good complementary medicine physician and ask for any of several simple tests they may recommend. Also, taking the aloe vera juice can help stabilize your condition no matter whether you are making too much or too little of your own stomach acid.
SOURCE:
http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/esomeprazole_ad.htm
