Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is a condition that results when the digestive process is disrupted. Dyspepsia may be caused by various factors, including eating habits, lifestyle choices, and other health conditions. Common symptoms of indigestion include bloating, gas, pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen, heartburn, and nausea. In most cases, indigestion can be relieved with changes in diet and lifestyle. However, some people may need medication or other medical treatment to find relief. Here, we will discuss the symptoms and causes of indigestion in more detail.

What is Indigestion?

When stomach acid comes into connection with the delicate lining of the digestive system, it causes indigestion. In addition, stomach acid erodes the lining, causing irritation and inflammation. This can lead to various symptoms, including pain, bloating, gas, heartburn, and nausea. In some cases, indigestion can also lead to vomiting or diarrhea.

Indigestion is a common condition that affects people of all ages. It is more common in adults, but children and adolescents can also experience it. Indigestion is usually not serious, but it can be uncomfortable and disruptive.

What is The Cause Of Indigestion?

Your stomach produces acid when you eat. Indigestion occurs when the acid in your stomach comes into contact with and irritates your stomach lining or throat. This forces indigestion and gives you a burning feeling in your chest (heartburn).

The following are potential causes:

  • Drinking alcohol: Alcohol relaxes the valve between your stomach and esophagus, allowing stomach acid to rise into your throat.
  • Smoking damages the lining of your stomach and esophagus, making them more vulnerable to acidic digestive juices.
  • Eating spicy, fatty, or fried foods can trigger indigestion by irritating your stomach lining.
  • Eating too much: Eating large meals can increase the amount of stomach acid you produce.
  • Stress and anxiety: These emotions can cause indigestion by causing your stomach to produce more acid.
  • Eating too fast: Eating quickly can cause you to swallow large amounts of air, leading to bloating and gas.

Symptoms of Indigestion

  • Discomfort or pain in your upper abdomen
  • Bloating
  • Heartburn
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Feeling sick
  • Belching
  • Food or fluids that taste bitter

Take Control Of Your Occasional Indigestion By making Some Small Changes to Your Diet and Lifestyle

You may not need to see your medic if you have indigestion, only occasionally with mild pain and discomfort. Instead, you can take control of your condition by making small changes to your diet and lifestyle.

The following are some tips that may help relieve your indigestion:

Maintain a Healthy Weight

If you are overweight, there is pressure on your stomach, making it easy for acid to be pushed back into your esophagus. A common cause of indigestion is excess weight. You can lose weight safely by exercising regularly and eating a nutritious diet. UK online pharmacies are great places to get help, advice, and prescription medication.

Give up Smoking

The chemicals in cigarette smoke can weaken the ring of muscle that separates your esophagus from your stomach. This allows stomach acid to leak back into your esophagus more easily. Quitting smoking is the best way to reduce your risk of heartburn. To quit smoking successfully, gather the right support network and advice. Products purchased from your local pharmacy for stop smoking service can also greatly increase your chances for success.

Foods and Beverages That Trigger Indigestion Should Be Avoided

This Includes:

  • Avoiding rich, spicy, and fatty foods
  • Drinks like tea, coffee, and soda often contain caffeine, so cutting down on them can be helpful
  • Eliminating or consuming less alcohol

If You Have Trouble Digesting Your Food at Night

  • To avoid feeling bloated or uncomfortable, refrain from eating for three to four hours before bedtime
  • If you go to bed with a full stomach, it increases the chances that acid in your stomach will be forced into your esophagus while lying down
  • If you want to stop stomach acid from affecting your esophagus, prop up your head at bedtime and slightly elevate the mattress so that you sleep with your head and shoulders above the level of your stomach.

Related Reads: Complete guide on heartburn: cause, symptoms, and treatment. 

Final Verdict

Yes, indigestion is a common problem, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer. By making small changes to your diet and lifestyle, you can take control of your occasional indigestion and prevent it from becoming a bigger issue. Online chemist shops are a great place to start if you need help changing your diet or lifestyle. You can also find helpful products that ease your symptoms and get you on the road to recovery. So, don’t suffer in silence; make the changes you need to take control of your indigestion.