National Asthma Educator Certification Board (NAECB) Practice Exam

The rationale behind the improvement of a poorly controlled asthma patient after starting Omeprazole, which is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), lies in the connection between esophageal irritation and airway inflammation. Omeprazole works by reducing stomach acid production, thereby alleviating reflux-related irritation in the esophagus.

When esophageal irritation is controlled, it can lead to a decrease in acid exposure that might trigger bronchoconstriction or inflammation in the lower airways. This is particularly relevant because the esophagus and airways can have a shared response to gastroesophageal reflux—acidic contents can flow back up and cause not only discomfort but also elicit respiratory symptoms such as wheezing or coughing in some asthma patients.

By addressing GERD, the inflammatory processes that might exacerbate asthma symptoms can be mitigated, leading to improved control over asthma-related symptoms. This connection highlights the importance of recognizing comorbid conditions, such as GERD, in the management of asthma to achieve better overall control.