Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor or antacid. It is used for the treatment of several conditions of the stomach and oesophagus resulting from excessive stomach acid. Omeprazole is typically used to treat frequent heartburn and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and is available under a range of brand names, including Losec and Prilosec.
Omeprazole works by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach and helping to prevent acid reflux. It is also used to treat duodenal ulcers, which are sores in the first portion of the small intestine, as well as other conditions related to excessive stomach acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.
Heartburn is a primary symptom of acid reflux and GORD. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, resulting in a burning sensation in the chest. The backflow of acid has easy passage if the lower oesophageal sphincter is weakened, which means it easily relaxes and opens up.
Several factors can contribute to heartburn and its severity. Here is an overview of some of the more common causes of heartburn:
Common symptoms of heartburn include:
There are steps you can take to prevent heartburn from developing, such as:
If you are experiencing persistent discomfort, it is essential to consult your doctor to determine the most effective management plan. They may be able to prescribe or recommend a heartburn treatment for you, like Omeprazole.
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