Indigestion

Also known as dyspepsia, indigestion is a pain or discomfort, in the upper abdomen. Stomach acid comes into contact with the sensitive, protective lining of the digestive system known as mucosa. The stomach acid breaks down the mucosa, causing irritation and inflammation, which brings on the symptoms of indigestion.

Indigestion happens to people from time to time. In a few cases it is a sign of another problem like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD). If you get indigestion regularly, Miracles for Men recommend that you seek medical attention.

What Causes Indigestion?

In most cases, there is no underlying reason for indigestion. As long as acid escapes from the stomach and forced back to the oesophagus, you are likely to get indigestion. There are other factors that can cause indigestion. They include:

1. Medication - Taking medication like aspirin, ibuprofen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs,
2. Obesity - Being obese increases pressure inside your abdomen forcing the oesophageal sphincter to open after a large meal, allowing stomach acid to escape,
3. Peptic ulcers - If you have peptic ulcers, indigestion may be one of the symptoms experienced,
4. Other medical conditions - Medical conditions like hiatus hernia, GORD, stomach ulcers or helicobacter pylori infection can cause indigestion

Indigestion Symptoms

Pain or a feeling of discomfort in you chest or stomach is the main symptom of indigestion. It normally feels like an ache or burning sensation behind your breastbone. It usually occurs after eating or drinking and is sometimes described as heartburn. You may also have:

• Belching,
• A feeling of being full, and
• Nausea

Indigestion is normally harmless by itself. However, you should medical attention if you have recurring indigestion and if you:

• Have lost a lot of weight,
• Are over 55 years,
• Have persistent vomiting,
• Have a lump or mass in your stomach,
• Have anemia, and
• Have increasing difficulty swallowing

Treatment and Prevention of Indigestion

The treatment of indigestion will greatly depend on the cause. If you only have indigestion occasionally, you may ease your simply change your dietary habits and lifestyle. There may be no need to see a doctor.

If it is more serious, your physician may recommend any of the following:

• Antacids,
• Alginates,
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPI’s),
• H2-receptor antagonists,
• Prokinetics, and
• Treatment for Helicobacter pylori infection,

You can also try to change your diet and lifestyle in order to reduce the severity or recurrence of indigestion. You should consider:

1. Losing weight if you are obese,
2. Stop smoking, chemicals in cigarettes can contribute to indigestion,
3. Change Diet. Consider eating less and avoid spicy, fatty foods. Reduce your intake of caffeine, or alcohol,
4. Avoid eating before bed. Going to bed with a full stomach is more likely to force food into your gullet while you lie down.

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