Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia or upset stomach, is marked by pain, burning, or discomfort in the upper stomach area – usually after eating. While it happens to everyone from time to time, it can be quite uncomfortable, leading many to seek quick relief and tips to prevent it.
If you're curious about the potential causes of indigestion, the symptoms to pay attention to, and some effective ways to get rid of indigestion and feel better fast, keep reading.
There are several causes of indigestion, many of which are related to lifestyle habits, existing health conditions, and triggers from specific foods, drinks, or medications. Some of the most common causes of indigestion include:
Although indigestion is very common, symptoms can differ from person to person or vary for the same individual at different times. Some of the most common symptoms of indigestion include:
Growling stomach
Burping and gas
Bloating
Nausea
Heartburn and acid reflux
Uncomfortable feeling of fullness during a meal or soon after
Typically, symptoms of indigestion last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. If discomfort from indigestion persists for more than two weeks, or you feel severe pain, talk to your doctor. Similarly, if you experience other symptoms such as weight loss, repeated vomiting, trouble swallowing, fatigue, shortness of breath, blood in your stool, or chest pain, you should consult a healthcare provider immediately.
To prevent indigestion, practice mindful eating by eating slowly and drinking fluids after your meal instead of during it.
Determining how to treat and what to take for indigestion can vary depending on its cause. For occasional indigestion, over-the-counter (OTC) antacid medications like Pepto-Bismol, Tums, and Rolaids, can help relieve symptoms by neutralizing stomach acid. It's a good idea to have these on hand in your remedy cabinet to be ready when indigestion strikes, but avoid using them more than a few times a week.
If you experience frequent or chronic indigestion, or find that antacids do not help, you may need to explore other treatment options. Sometimes, making simple lifestyle changes — such as avoiding triggering foods or finding alternatives to medications — can be helpful. In other cases, antibiotics or prescription medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), histamine (H2) blockers, or prokinetics, may be necessary.
If you’re unsure about the treatment you need, consider talking to your Rexall Pharmacist. They can offer advice and recommendations based on your current health concerns, symptoms, and any medications you are taking.
Diarrhea happens to everyone—but why? Explore common causes, from acute to chronic cases, plus specific triggers like antibiotics, stress, and travel.
Learn More
Heartburn, acid reflux, and GERD are not the same thing. Discover the differences between them and how to find relief for each.
Learn Morehttps://pepto-bismol.ca/en-ca/article/indigestion
https://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/indigestion-overview
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/7316-indigestion-dyspepsia
https://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/indigestion-overview
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/indigestion/symptoms-causes/syc-20352211
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/indigestion/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352215
