Common Causes, Diagnosis and treatment of indigestion

Indigestion or dyspepsia is a state of discomfort accompanying or following the intake of food. It is usually associated with difficult or painful digestion and it may be related to failure of some phases of the digestive process. Oftentimes, the signs of this condition are like that of acid reflux. Aside from this facts however, we want to share more information on the disorder.

Symptoms of indigestion vary but usually include a feeling of fullness or weight in the pit of the stomach. Sensations that are dull and steady or acute and spasmodic may occur immediately after eating, or it may not appear until sometime later. Discharging of gas or belching may be existent at times. Heartburn may occur, frequently accompanied by an acid up into the mouth from the stomach. Flatulence, coated tongue, headache, and dizziness may also be present.

Causes of indigestion:
This gastric disturbance may be caused by any of several problems such as irritation in the stomach, gastropsis, ulcer, and cancer. It may also arise from disorders in organs other than the stomach like cirrhosis of the liver, gallbladder inflammation, appendicitis, nephritis, peritonitis, and heart or lung diseases. A wide range of mental and emotional conditions may also be the source of indigestion.

Diagnosis and treatment for indigestion:
Since indigestion is a result of a wide array of causes, early analysis and medication should be done. The physician will be guided by the symptoms and the level of treatment is very wide. The treatment for indigestion can be as simple as the classic bicarbonate of soda or as complex as surgery.
Below are simple steps to avoid indigestion:

• Eat meals at regular hours. This helps the stomach secrete its juices at regular times. If meals are delayed, the concentrated acids secreted may irritate the lining of the stomach thus resulting to acid reflux.

• Avoid large heavy meals. Small meals at frequent intervals are better than large meals taken less frequently.

• Eat slowly and chew your food carefully. Avoid irritating stimulants, spicy and greasy foods.

• Drink a glass of milk between meals. This will help overcome the excess acid in the stomach.

For indigestion, think of other ailments that may affect your gastrointestinal tract, and its underlying muscular organs – esophagus, stomach, small intestine, gallbladder, and the colon. These organs may have been already affected by ailments. Proper assessment of the symptoms you are experiencing will help you with the problem. For all you know it is the start of the dysfunction of your organs.

Although indigestion is considered as a common condition, there are still other kinds of functional ailments like the irritable bowel syndrome which can create abdominal pain. Non-cardiac chest pain is another. You have to watch out for these ailments aside from the possibilities of indigestion.

Since indigestion is usually caused by emotional problem rather than by organic or physical diseases, you should try to avoid tension and learn to adopt a calmer, more relaxed attitude. This will reduce the possible complications that may arise due to the disorder. Relay all facts with your health care provider.

Key Word:
Indigestion, dyspepsia, Heartburn, Flatulence, coated tongue, headache, dizziness, , gastropsis, ulcer, and cancer, cirrhosis of the liver, gallbladder inflammation