We've all experienced that uncomfortable feeling of indigestion after eating a large meal or indulging in our favourite foods. But do you know what causes indigestion, and how to treat it? In this blog, we'll explore the symptoms, causes, and treatments of indigestion while providing you with some helpful tips to manage this common condition.

Breaking Down Indigestion Causes

So, what causes indigestion? Well, it turns out that there are many different factors that can trigger it. Some common indigestion causes include:

Eating Habits: Overeating or eating too quickly can put a strain on your digestive system and lead to indigestion. Consuming fatty or spicy foods can also irritate the lining of your stomach and cause discomfort.
Lifestyle Habits: Smoking tobacco and drinking too much alcohol can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle, which is responsible for keeping stomach acid in the stomach. When this muscle doesn't function correctly, acid can flow back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn and indigestion. Stress and anxiety is also an indigestion cause as it increases stomach acid production.
Medication: Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antibiotics, can irritate the stomach lining and cause indigestion. If you're experiencing indigestion while taking medication, you must consult your doctor to see if there's an alternative treatment option.

By identifying the underlying indigestion causes, you can take steps to manage your symptoms effectively.

Understanding The Signs Of An Upset Stomach: Indigestion Symptoms

The symptoms of indigestion can vary from person to person. Some common symptoms include bloating, nausea, belching, and abdominal pain. You may also experience heartburn or acid reflux, which can cause a burning sensation in your chest. If you experience persistent or severe indigestion symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention, as it could be a sign of an underlying condition.

Treat Your Stomach

Thankfully, there are several indigestion treatments available to help you manage this pesky issue. Depending on the underlying indigestion cause, your doctor may recommend medications such as antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors. Over-the-counter medications such as Unienzyme and probiotics are also commonly recommended treatments for indigestion.

Lifestyle changes such as eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding trigger foods, quitting smoking, and reducing stress can also help alleviate indigestion symptoms. In some cases, alternative therapies such as acupuncture or herbal remedies may be helpful as well.

The Takeaway

Indigestion can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but it's important to remember that it's a common problem that can be effectively managed. By identifying the underlying indigestion causes and making lifestyle changes or taking medication as needed, you can reduce your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Remember, if you experience persistent or severe bloating, it's important to speak to your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

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