Indigestion :Causes-Symptoms-Diagnosis-Treatment
What Is Indigestion?
Indigestion, conjointly referred to as dyspepsia, may be a common condition. It can happen once your body has hassle digesting food. It happens in your canal (GI) tract. The canal is a cluster of organs that plays a role in digestion. Anyone can get indigestion. you'll apprehend on occasion, or it is often a current problem. The symptoms and causes vary by case. If there's no familiar cause for indigestion, it's stated as practical dyspepsia.Indigestion, or dyspepsia, describes an upset stomach. it should cause a painful or burning feeling in your abdomen (belly). conjointly referred to as a sour stomach, dyspepsia could happen once in a very whereas or often.
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dyspepsia is usually confused with heartburn. Heartburn may be a separate condition that affects your higher chest.Indigestion is usually an indication of an underlying problem, similar to reflux sickness (GERD), ulcers, or bladder disease, instead of a condition of its own.
conjointly referred to as dyspepsia, it's outlined as a persistent or continual pain or discomfort within the upper abdomen.
Medical terms
Indigestion is discomfort in your upper abdomen. Indigestion describes certain symptoms such as abdominal pain and a feeling of fullness soon after you eat. Indigestion can also be a symptom of various diseases. Diseases of the digestive system.
Indigestion is common, but each person experiences it in a different way. Symptoms of indigestion may occur occasionally or as often as daily.
Sometimes indigestion is relieved by making changes to one's lifestyle or taking medications.
Heartburn and GERD Many people experience symptoms of heartburn or indigestion at some point in their lives Besides being unpleasant these conditions can also be uncomfortable and sometimes painful If you suffer from symptoms of heartburn it is important for you to understand what causes the condition so that you are able to take steps to prevent it from occurring.
Remedies There are several ways to treat indigestion One of the most effective is eating smaller meals throughout the day as opposed to three large meals Half of your plate should consist of fresh fruits and vegetables which are high in fiber and low in fat Another way you can prevent indigestion is by cutting back on foods that cause heartburn such as fried or fatty foods chocolate and alcohol You can also opt for over-the-counter antacid tablets like Tums or Rolaids to ease gassy discomfort when you eat certain foods that upset your stomach.
Symptoms Indigestion
If you have indigestion, it may mean that you have:
Burning in the stomach or upper abdomen
Abdominal pain
Bloating (full feeling)
Belching and gas
Nausea and vomiting
Acidic taste
Growling stomach
Early fullness during a meal.You are already full after only a small amount of your meal and may not be able to finish eating.
Uncomfortable fullness after a meal.The feeling of fullness lasts longer than it should.
Discomfort in the upper abdomen.You may feel pain between your breastbone and belly button.
Burning in the upper abdomen.You might feel an uncomfortable heat or burning sensation between your breastbone and belly button.
Bloating in the upper abdomen.You may experience an uncomfortable sensation in your upper abdomen.
Nausea. You feel as if you want to vomit.
The less frequent symptoms include vomiting and belching.
People with indigestion may also experience heartburn. Heartburn is a pain or burning sensation in the center of your chest that may spread to your neck or back during or after eating.
When to see a doctor
If mild indigestion persists for more than two weeks, it might be something to worry about. Consult your doctor if the discomfort continues for more than two weeks.
If pain is severe or accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, contact your doctor right away.
Losing weight or not having an appetite can be a result of unintentional changes.
Repeated vomiting or vomiting with blood
Black, tarry stools
Something is making it difficult for you to swallow. That difficulty has been getting worse over time.
If you are feeling tired or weak, this may be a sign of anemia.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention: Fever, muscle pain, redness, and swelling.
If you are having shortness of breath, sweating, or chest pain that radiates to other parts of the body, it may be a sign that you have a heart condition.
Chest pain on exertion or with stress
Causes Indigestion
There are several attainable causesTrusted supply of indigestion. These will vary from dietary and fashion habits to the aspect effects of medicines and high underlying conditions.
Indigestion can have many causes. Often, it is related to lifestyle and may be caused by food, drink, or medication. Common causes of indigestion include:
Overeating or eating too quickly
Fatty, greasy or spicy foods
Drinking too many caffeinated, alcoholic, or carbonated drinks can have negative consequences.
Smoking
Anxiety
Some antibiotics, painkillers, and iron supplements relieve pain.
Nonulcer dyspepsia is a common cause of indigestion that is related to irritable bowel syndrome.
Sometimes indigestion is a result of other conditions, including:
Inflammation of the stomach (gastritis)
Peptic ulcers
Celiac disease
Gallstones
Constipation
Pancreas inflammation (pancreatitis)
Stomach cancer
Intestinal blockage
Ischemia (a lack of blood flow) occurs in the intestine.
Diabetes
Thyroid disease
Pregnancy
What does indigestion feel like?
Indigestion is a catchall term for a variety of symptoms related to the stomach including heartburn belching and flatulence These symptoms can be caused by several factors including overeating or eating certain types of foods Other causes for indigestion include stress or anxiety underlying medical conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or even psychological factors like depression.
Is milk good for indigestion?
Due to its high lactic acid content milk can help relieve symptoms of indigestion Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) which improves the health of skin hair and joints by promoting collagen production A healthy body has a pH level of 7 while an unhealthy body has a pH level below 7. The primary purpose of your stomach is to break down foods into the simplest components that can be easily absorbed into the bloodstream The three main components are carbohydrates (sugars) proteins and fats When you consume milk products your body processes them as if they were proteins because it contains casein (a protein) and lactose.
Does water help indigestion?
There is no scientific evidence that drinking water will cure or reduce heartburn caused by an excess of stomach acid according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse However water may ease some symptoms of heartburn For example drinking a glass of water may help you feel better if your indigestion is caused by eating too quickly or if you have a "food baby" -- when your stomach feels bloated after a large meal.
Is hot water good for acid reflux?
Acid reflux is a condition that occurs when stomach acid travels back up into the esophagus The pain and discomfort associated with acid reflux can be lessened or even eliminated by drinking hot liquids including hot water If you have acid reflux avoid eating foods high in fat and try drinking water instead of acidic beverages such as coffee or tea.
Is hot water good for acidity?
Hot water is associated with curing many health ailments that range from skin infections to more severe conditions like arthritis and gout Though most of the research on this issue has been conducted in animals researchers believe that hot water can help treat these diseases because it increases blood flow which allows more oxygen and nutrients to reach parts of the body that need them.
Complications Indigestion
Indigestion isn't usually a serious complication, but it can affect your quality of life by making you feel uncomfortable and causing you to restrict your eating. You might miss work or school because of your symptoms.
Diagnosis Indigestion
Your doctor can seemingly begin by asking questions on your anamnesis and ingestion habits. you'll also bear a physical examination nation. Your doctor may order X-rays of your abdomen to check if there are any abnormalities in your GI tract.
They will also collect blood, breath, and stool samples to check for a sort of bacterium that causes organic process ulcers. Your doctor may also order an examination exam to check your higher biological process tract for abnormalities.
Throughout an endoscopy, your doctor passes atiny low tube with a camera and diagnostic test tool through your esophagus into your stomach. They will then check the liner of the GI tract for diseases and collect tissue samples.
Your doctor will likely start with a health history and physical exam if you have mild indigestion. If you're not experiencing any symptoms such as weight loss or repeated vomiting, your evaluation may be sufficient.
If you have indigestion and are experiencing severe symptoms, your doctor may recommend that you take some steps to relieve your condition.
Laboratory tests,To test for anemia or other metabolic disorders, look for indications such as pale skin and fatigue.
Breath and stool tests,To test for Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that is associated with ulcers in the stomach, check for an increase in stomach acid.
Endoscopy,If you have persistent symptoms in your upper digestive tract, a tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken for analysis.
Imaging tests (X-ray or CT scan),To determine if there is an obstruction in the intestine, you may do a bowel check.
Treatment Indigestion
Indigestion typically goes away on its own and {can} pass with time. For example, if you experience dyspepsia once in an outsized meal, your abdominal discomfort might reduce as your body begins to digest the food you’ve eaten.
However, some medications and style changes can assist you treat and forestall indigestion symptoms.
Changes to your lifestyle may help ease indigestion. Your doctor may recommend things like eating a balanced diet and getting enough exercise.
Avoiding foods that trigger indigestion
Eating smaller meals more often instead of three large meals will help you feel better.
Avoid drinking alcohol or using caffeine to reduce tiredness or improve focus.
Do not take pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and Aleve if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you have trouble with medications that cause indigestion, there are some alternatives that you can try.
Controlling stress and anxiety
If you have indigestion, medications may help. Over-the-counter antacids are usually the first choice. Other possibilities include:
PPIs are a type of medication.PPIs (proton-pump inhibitors) can reduce stomach acid. If you experience heartburn along with indigestion, this may be a good treatment option.
H-2-receptor blockers, which can also reduce stomach acid.
Prokinetics,Taking this medication may help if your stomach empties slowly.
Antibiotics,Acidic fruits and vegetables can help to relieve indigestion if H. pylori bacteria are causing it.
Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications are used to treat depression or anxiety.Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may relieve the discomfort from indigestion by decreasing your sensation of pain.
Lifestyle and home remedies
If you have mild indigestion, you can often improve it by making lifestyle changes, such as eating foods that are easy to digest.
Eating smaller, more-frequent meals. Chew your food slowly and thoroughly.
Avoiding triggers.Foods that are fatty and spicy, processed foods, carbonated beverages, caffeine, alcohol, and smoking can make you sick if you eat them in large quantities.
Maintaining a healthy weight.Having too much weight puts pressure on your abdomen, which causes your stomach to rise and the acid in your esophagus to back up.
Exercising regularly.Physical activity helps you maintain your weight and improve your digestion.
Managing stress.Make sure to have a calm environment when eating. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing meditation or yoga before meals. Get enough sleep. Spend time doing things you enjoy.
Changing your medications.If you need to take pain relievers, be sure to do so with food. If that isn't possible, stop taking the medications or reduce the dosage as advised by your doctor.
Alternative medicine
Various treatments have been used for many years to relieve indigestion - some are more effective than others. These include:
Herbal therapies that include peppermint oil or a combination of peppermint and caraway oils can be used. The Japanese herbal formula Rikkunshito can also be used.
STW 5 (Iberogast) is a supplement containing extracts of nine herbs that may reduce the production of stomach acid.
Acupuncture may work to block the pathways that carry sensations of pain to the brain.
Behavior modification techniques such as relaxation, cognitive behavioral therapy, and hypnotherapy can be very helpful in psychological treatment.
Before taking any supplements, always check with your doctor to be sure you're taking a safe dose and that the supplement won't interfere with any other medications you're using.
Preparing for your appointment
You may visit your family doctor or be referred to a doctor who specializes in digestive diseases (gastroenterologist). Here is some information about your appointment that will help you get ready and know what to expect.
What you can do
Make sure you are aware of any pre-appointment restrictions.You should not eat solid food the day before your appointment.
Write down your symptoms,The symptoms of a cold may include when the cold started and how it has changed or worsened over time.
Take a list of all your medications, vitamins or supplements.
Write down your key medical information, including other diagnosed conditions.
Write down key personal information,Your health questionnaire should include any recent changes or stressors in your life as well as a detailed description of your typical daily diet.
Write down questions to ask your doctor.
Some questions you may want to ask your doctor include:
What could be causing my symptoms?
Do you think my condition will go away quickly or do you think it is something that I will have to deal with for a long time?
What kinds of tests do I need?
What treatments can help?
What are the dietary restrictions I need to follow?
Could any of my medications be causing me to have these symptoms?
Don't be afraid to ask questions during your appointment.
What to expect from your doctor
You'll want to be prepared to answer any questions your doctor may ask.
What are the symptoms you're experiencing and how severe are they?
Has your illness been ongoing or sporadic?
What are the side effects of taking this medication?
What medications do you take to relieve pain?
What do you eat and drink on a typical day?
How have you been feeling emotionally?
Do you smoke cigarettes, cigars, or pipes?
Do you have better or worse symptoms when you don't eat anything?
Do I look like I might have vomited blood or black material?
Do you have any new changes in your bowel habits, such as black stools?
Have you lost weight?
Have you had nausea or vomiting or both?
General summary
Many people with indigestion or heartburn have found that eating small meals throughout the day is much more comfortable than eating three large meals This is because when you eat smaller portions your stomach does not have to work as hard to digest food and there is less pressure on the digestive tract Additionally eating smaller amounts of food more often gives the body more time to properly digest food before it tries to digest another meal.
The most common reasons why people suffer from indigestion are eating too much eating while they are stressed or bored or eating too quickly There are many different types of indigestion and acid reflux that can affect a person The most common types of indigestion are caused by overeating but there is also heartburn gastritis and ulcers Heartburn is defined as the burning pain that a person feels in their chest after they eat or drink something that causes their stomach acids to rise up into their esophagus Gastritis is when the lining of the stomach becomes inflamed for a number of reasons including stress smoking drinking alcohol.
