INDIGESTION
Indigestion is a common digestive problem characterised by discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, often accompanied by symptoms such as bloating, nausea, heartburn, and belching.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of indigestion include:
*Upper abdominal pain or discomfort
*Bloating
*Nausea
*Heartburn
*Belching
*Excessive gas
*An unpleasant taste in the mouth
*A burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)
*Chest pain
*Difficulty swallowing
*Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
*Fullness after eating
*Loss of appetite
*Unintended weight loss
Note: These symptoms may also be associated with other medical conditions and a doctor should be consulted to rule out other potential causes.
What causes indigestion?
Indigestion can have many causes, including:
*Overeating or eating too quickly
*Eating spicy, fatty, or greasy foods
*Drinking alcohol or carbonated beverages
*Smoking
*Consuming caffeinated drinks like coffee or tea
*Eating too close to bedtime
*Stress or anxiety
*Hormonal changes (especially in women)
*Certain medications
*Medical conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, H. pylori infection, and others.
It’s important to see a doctor if indigestion symptoms persist or are severe, as they may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.
How do I relieve indigestion at home?
There are several self-care measures you can try to relieve indigestion at home:
*Avoid trigger foods and drinks
*Eat smaller, more frequent meals
*Don’t eat close to bedtime
*Avoid lying down after eating
*Wear loose, comfortable clothing
*Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing and yoga
*Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine
*Chew gum to increase saliva production
*Sip on peppermint tea or ginger tea
*Raise the head of your bed
*Over-the-counter antacids may also provide relief
It’s important to speak with a doctor before trying any new remedies or taking over-the-counter medications, as some may interact with other medications you’re taking or have potential side effects.
What Are The Treatments Of Indigestion?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause, but may include:
*Lifestyle changes: avoiding trigger foods and drinks, eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding lying down after eating, practising relaxation techniques, etc.
*Over-the-counter antacids: to neutralise stomach acid
*H-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs): to reduce stomach acid production
*Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): to decrease stomach acid production
*Antibiotics: if H. pylori infection is causing indigestion
*Behavioural therapy: if stress and anxiety are contributing to indigestion
It’s important to consult a doctor to determine the underlying cause of indigestion and the most appropriate treatment. The doctor may also perform diagnostic tests to rule out any serious underlying medical conditions.
When Do I See a Doctor In Case Of Indigestion?
You should see a doctor if you have persistent or severe symptoms of indigestion, such as:
*Chest pain or pressure
*Persistent nausea or vomiting
*Trouble swallowing
*Weight loss
*Black or tarry stools
*Heartburn not relieved by antacids
*Symptoms that interfere with daily activities.
Conclusion:
In conclusion is a common digestive issue characterised by discomfort in the upper abdomen, bloating, and nausea. Lifestyle changes and over-the estion is a common digestive issue characterised by discomfort in the upper abdomen, bloating, and nausea. Lifestyle changes -counter antacids can usually relieve mild symptoms. However, if symptoms are persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
