Indigestion, also called dyspepsia, is a common word used for determining the pain and discomfort in the stomach. Heartburn is caused by excessive secretion of stomach acid that travels to the oesophagus, causing burning pain just behind the breastbone. A person may suffer from indigestion and heartburn at the same time. Dyspepsia is a common issue that is experienced by most people, which is usually mild and occurs occasionally.
Signs & Symptoms of Indigestion
- Burning sensation in chest region – heartburn
- Feeling sick
- Feeling uncomfortably full and bloated
- Belching
- Flatulence – passing too much wind
- Regurgitation of food or liquid
These clinical features usually occur after eating or drinking, while some may experience them constantly.
Causes of Indigestion
Indigestion is a gastric issue related to eating. Your stomach secretes acid when you eat, which can sometime corrode or irritate your stomach and oesophagus. This type of irritation is really painful and causes burning, especially in the parts that are oversensitive to acid. After a heavy meal, your stomach distends, causing gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). In GORD, the acid travels to your oesophagus. Following are the potential causes of indigestion:
- Obesity
- Smoking and alcohol
- Helicobacter Pylori infection
- Peptic ulcers
- Pregnancy
- Stress and anxiety
- Bad effects of certain medicines
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms. Most cases of indigestion alleviate by making simple changes in the diet and lifestyle, or by taking medicines such as antacids (acid reducers). Antacids work by stopping the secretion of stomach acid, thereby treating indigestion efficiently. Treating the underlying cause such as GORD or peptic ulcers helps suffice the symptoms.
Lifestyle changes such as eating healthy and exercising can ease your indigestion symptoms. Give up smoking, limit alcohol intake and get quality sleep. You can try a few home remedies to overcome indigestion. If a particular medicine is causing heartburn, talk with your doctor for an alternative.
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