A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W

INDIGESTION

How does Indigestion occur ?

The symptoms are produced by two factors. There is delay in the speed at which the stomach empties food into the duodenum. The stomach therefore gets distended with food. This in turn stimulates the production of more acid, which in turn irritates the lower end of the gullet. >/p>

Why does Indigestion occur ?

Stress is the commonest cause of non-ulcer dyspepsia. However, symptoms may follow an attack of gastroenteritis. Other causes include smoking, excess alcohol, drugs like aspirin and other anti-inflammation drugs used in the treatment of arthritis. Steroid (cortisone-like) drugs may also be responsible. Over-eating or consuming food and drink too quickly is a common cause, especially when excessively spicy foods are eaten. Non-ulcer dyspepsia also occurs in patients with gallstones, perhaps because the right type of bile is not available to neutralize acid. In many patients, removing the gall bladder does not improve symptoms, so that the cause of gall bladder dyspepsia is not clear.

Treatment Involved for Indigestion

Any factors listed above (like smoking and alcohol), as well as the incorrect use of any drugs, should be stopped if possible. Non-ulcer dyspepsia often starts at a time of stress. Stress cannot be easily avoided, but there are many ways that you can deal with it. Avoiding deadlines (especially the self-imposed ones) is important. Delegating more responsibility should be tried, if at all possible. Learn to say No a little more often, and make sure that there are proper evening and weekend breaks. Regular exercise and the distraction of a hobby may be useful. Above all, problems should be discussed openly. Bottled-up feelings and worries are a big cause of stress. If there is no-one amongst family or friends, the doctor will normally be happy to talk through problems. If there is doubt in diagnosis, tests may be performed. These may include a barium meal x-ray, or a look into the stomach using a fibre-optic tube (endoscopy). Medicines are often useful for controlling the symptoms, but will not actually cure the problem. Peppermints or peppermint oil is a good start. Antacids, particularly those containing alginate, often help. They should be taken after meals, and perhaps on retiring for the night. Relaxation of the stomach muscle is achieved with anti-spasmodics , while other drugs may be given to speed up the emptying of the stomach (like metoclopramide or domperidone). Often it is a matter of trial and error as to which medicine works best. Changing lifestyle is usually much more effective and safer!

During Treatment for Indigestion

The condition is never dangerous. There is no evidence that it will develop into peptic ulcer disease. Side-effects of any drugs used tend to be mild. Check with the doctor if anything unusual is noted.

After Treatment for Indigestion

Non-ulcer dyspepsia is by nature a recurring problem. Further attacks are bound to occur, unless lifestyle is changed: often quite drastic changes are needed!

If Indigestion is Left Untreated

Symptoms would just continue. There is no likelihood of it changing to ulcer or cancer. However, if the type of symptom changes, it would be worth mentioning this to the doctor.

Effects on Family of Indigestion

Family and friends need to be taken into your confidence. They may be able to help you create a less stressful lifestyle. They are the perfect partners with whom to discuss problems.