Nexium, a proton-pump inhibitor, treats gastroesophageal reflux disease, stomach and duodenal ulcers. An electrocardiogram (EKG) measures the electrical activities of the heart and can detect several heart problems. Patients taking Nexium may have abnormal EKG results because Nexium might interfere with the normal functioning of the heart.
Nexium's Effects on the Heart
According to Drugs.com, use of Nexium interferes with normal electrical activities of the heart by causing fast heart rate, abnormal heart rhythms and chest pain. Nexium's effects on the heart can be assessed by an EKG.
Tachycardia
According to the National Institutes of Health, an EKG measures the heart's electrical activity. Nexium use can cause tachycardia or rapid heart rate, a problem that be detected using an EKG. Tachycardia is dangerous because the heart beats too fast and does not allow the ventricles to fill properly and pump enough blood to the body.
Arrhythmias
According to the Drugs.com, use of Nexium may cause arrhythmia or abnormal heart rhythm. Arrhythmia changes the normal sequence of electrical impulses transmission by the heart to the atria and ventricles, and interferes with normal pumping of the blood to body organs.
Chest Pain
Drugs.com states that use of Nexium may cause chest pain. Nexium causes chest pain by preventing the heart from receiving enough oxygen-rich blood. Patients having chest pain caused by Nexium use may have an abnormal EKG. Patients with chest pain due to Nexium use have pressure and tightness in the chest area, crushing pain and shortness of breath, which cause patients to be restlessness during the EKG.
Avoiding Abnormal EKG Results
According to the National Institutes of Health, patients scheduled to have an EKG should inform their doctor of the medications they are taking before the test is conducted. Patients taking Nexium may be requested to stop taking Nexium one week before the EKG, to prevent Nexium interference with EKG results.
