Indigestion Treatment Choices

Indigestion, medically known as Dyspepsia, is a condition of the digestive system caused by improper secretion of gastric juices.  This leads to severe discomfort.  There are several choices available when it comes to indigestion treatment.

The causes of indigestion vary widely with some being serious and others being very simple.   Indigestion could be a symptom of another medical condition or it could be the result of poor or improper eating habits.

Some conditions or diseases which can cause indigestion are:

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Stomach ulcer
  • Hiatal hernia
  • Helicobacter Pylori (H Pylori)
  • Simple heart burn

As noted, indigestion could be the symptom of a more serious disease. However, indigestion can also be due to poor eating habits such as, eating too fast, over eating, and eating during stressful circumstances.  The reason that these things cause indigestion is that they prevent the digestive system from properly digesting the food. Eating fatty foods, which contain insoluble fats, are also hard for the digestive system to digest.

Symptoms of Indigestion:

  • Heartburn
  • Appetite loss
  • Passing gas (flatulence)
  • Belching
  • Upper abdominal discomfort
  • Chest discomfort
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Burning in the chest area

There are several factors that can cause indigestion besides the diseases already mentioned.  Other causes include irregular eating habits, certain foods that are hard to digest, some medications, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking.

Understanding what causes the dyspepsia or indigestion will help you to identify what your triggers for indigestion are and select the best indigestion treatment for your condition.

Indigestion treatments

The first choice of indigestion treatment could be as easy as simple dietary changes.  You may not have to eliminate certain foods but just reduce the frequency and amount of the foods that cause indigestion.  It is highly recommended, if you are experiencing problems with indigestion, that you do eliminate spicy and fatty foods from your diet since these are known to produce excess gas in the digestive system.

Antacids purchased over the counter can bring quick relief to the symptoms of indigestion in mild to moderate cases.  These medications work by neutralizing the stomach acids.  However, you should not rely upon these medications for an extended period of time without consulting with your physician.

Some natural indigestion remedies include a cup of hot water with a tablespoon of lemon juice.  Some herbal teas can be helpful in relieving indigestion, the best being, raspberry, mint, chamomile and blackberry.

It is important to chew your food well and no to eat within 3 hours of your bedtime.  Do not overeat; you should eat smaller meals to prevent indigestion.

Sleeping with your head elevated will help with problems of indigestion during the night.

The best indigestion treatment is to eat healthy meals on a regular basis with proper exercise and sleep.  If you simply take care of yourself, you may find you can prevent problems of indigestion.  Preventing indigestion can eliminate more serious conditions in the future.