How can you prevent and treat indigestion?

Causes of indigestion: ¹

– Limit fried, spicy gassy foods

– Enjoy smaller portions

– Limit alcohol

– Quit smoking

– Wait an hour after eating to exercise

– Wear loose clothing

– Manage stress

– Manage your weight
– Avoid eating for a few hours before bed

There are many possible causes of indigestion. These can range from dietary and lifestyle habits to the side effects of medications and serious underlying conditions.

• Lifestyles

– Overeating or eating too quickly

– Fatty, greasy or spicy foods

– Lying down soon after a meal

– Too much caffeine, alcohol, chocolate or carbonated beverages

– Cigarette smoking

– Anxiety or stress

• Medications

– Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID), such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen

– Certain antibiotics

– Thyroid medicines

• Medical conditions 

– Ulcers, GERD, Gastroparesis (a condition where stomach does not empty properly, often occurs in diabetes patient)

– Irritable bowel syndromes (IBS)

– Thyroid disease

– Pregnancy and obesity

How can you prevent and treat indigestion?³

Indigestion often goes away on its own and will pass with time. However, some lifestyle changes and medications can help you prevent and treat indigestion symptoms.

1. Lifestyle Changes:

2. Medications:

If your indigestion persists, medications may help. Over-the-counter antacids(eg. Gaviscon Double Action) are generally the first choice. Other options include:

• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which can reduce stomach acid. PPIs may be recommended particularly if you experience heartburn along with indigestion.
• H2-receptor blockers, which can also reduce stomach acid.
• Prokinetics, which may be helpful if your stomach empties slowly.
• Probiotics 4 , which may help to restore gastric microbiota changes

*Proton pump inhibitors, H2-receptor blockers, prokinetics are controlled medications. Consult your pharmacist or doctor for further information.

When to see a doctor? ¹

Mild indigestion is usually nothing to worry about. Consult your doctor if your discomfort persists for more than two weeks and if you have any of the symptoms:

• Unintentional weight loss or loss of appetite
• Repeated vomiting or vomiting with blood
• Black, tarry stools
• Trouble swallowing that gets progressively worse
• Fatigue or weakness, which may indicate anemia

Symptoms similar to indigestion may be caused by heart attacks. Seek medical attention immediately if you have:

• Shortness of breath, sweating, or chest pain radiating to the jaw, neck or arm
• Chest pain on exertion or with stress

In a nutshell, indigestion is completely normal and most people will certainly experience indigestion in some form throughout their lives. But if you’re unsure or unable to manage indigestion at home, feel free to approach any of our caring pharmacists at Caring Pharmacy for more information on how to deal with your indigestion.