Indigestion

Indigestion, also called dyspepsia, is a common condition that anyone can experience. Although uncomfortable, indigestion goes away on its own after a few hours. Over-the-counter antacids are available. Indigestion can be managed at home, even by drinking milk. However, after talking over the counter products if symptoms persist/or become worse it is best to seek medical attention.

Indigestion occurs when stomach acid irritates the stomach lining or when the stomach acid travels up through the oesophagus and into the throat after eating or drinking. It can present as heartburn, also called reflux, which is a painful burning in the chest. Belching and farting are two rather embarrassing symptoms. Feeling bloated, sick or bringing up food or bitter fluids are also associated with indigestion. Stomach aches and back pain are not typically present with indigestion. Indigestion can be triggered by overeating or eating too fast. Also, these type of foods can irritate your stomach: Fatty, greasy or spicy. Too much caffeine, alcohol, chocolate or fizzy beverages.

Stress can make indigestion worse. If chronic stress is a problem, search out stress reduction techniques. Exercise can also help manage stress.

Some medications have indigestion listed as a side-effect; these include ibuprofen and aspirin. Prescription medications can also cause indigestion, including those used to treat depression and anxiety, high blood pressure and antibiotics, amongst many more. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about indigestion and any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter and home remedies. Do not take ibuprofen or aspirin if you already have indigestion.

Some illnesses can contribute to indigestion, including hiatus, stomach ulcers, stomach cancer, gastro-oesophageal disease, IBS and pancreatitis. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing indigestion alongside a medical condition.

Antacids are medicines that ease the burning and pain associated with indigestion. They are available from the medicines aisle in the supermarket, pharmacy and online pharmacy as well as various other shops. A pharmacist can help select the right one. Do not give antacids to children. They are typically safe for most people to have but aren't suitable for use with some medical conditions such as heart failure and kidney failure. Speak to your pharmacist before taking antacids if you have a medical condition or are on any other medication. Store all medicines out of sight and reach of children in the original container. Always read the label for dosage and storage instructions as these can vary by brand. Side effects can include; constipation, diarrhoea, food intolerances and an allergic reaction. Always check the ingredients, including the inactive ones, for known allergens. Take antacids after eating. They work best on a full stomach and can last up to three hours after eating. They only last for 20-30 minutes on an empty stomach.

Sometimes indigestion can be a sign of a serious underlying medical condition. Seek medical attention for recurrent indigestion, extreme pain, are age 55 or over, unexpected weight loss, experience difficulties swallowing, vomiting or there's blood in vomit or poo, feels like a lump in the stomach or have iron deficiency anaemia.

Seek immediate medical attention for yourself or someone who is experiencing indigestion with shortness of breath, sweating or pain spreading along the jaw, neck or arm. A heart attack presents with similar symptoms to indigestion and requires immediate medical attention from a trained professional. They can be fatal if not caught right away.

Some simple lifestyle changes may help manage indigestion. Smoking and alcohol have been linked to indigestion. Quit smoking, and if you really can't quit, do not smoke just before or after eating or drinking. Cut back on the caffeine found in teas and coffees. Some fizzy drinks are also a source of caffeine, but the main problem with them is the carbonation, which leads to swallowing air. Drink this oral liquid after eating a meal and not during a meal.

Have the last meal of the day at least three hours before bed. Eat smaller meals. Avoid spicy, rich or fatty foods or foods that are greasy or fried. Avoid foods with a lot of acid such as tomatoes. Eat slowly and relax after eating. Do not speak while eating. This can lead to swallowing air. Also, chew with mouth-shut. Apart from being disgusting and off-putting for other diners, the body will swallow more air. Swallowing more air means bloating.

In bed, prop head and shoulders up to prevent stomach acid from travelling into the oesophagus and throat. Don't lie down after eating. Avoid tight-fitting clothes as they put pressure on the stomach, forcing food and acid into the oesophagus.

Lose weight if overweight or obese. Exercising on a full stomach can also lead to indigestion. On an empty stomach, the body will burn through fat, so will make weight loss easier. Wait at least one hour after eating before exercising.

Although indigestion can range from annoying to painful, it is very common. Most people will experience at some point in their lives. It can be managed safely with dietary and lifestyle changes, or short-term use of antacids. It usually isn't anything to fear.