Indigestion

What is indigestion?

Most people have probably experienced indigestion at some point in their life. When you eat or drink, it's that pain you sometimes feel in your stomach, throat or behind your chest bone.

 

This issue is widespread regardless of age and is usually treatable with simple home remedies.

 

Indigestion can be caused by several things, ranging from eating too quickly to more serious underlying medical conditions. If you are experiencing frequent or recurring indigestion, speaking to your doctor to identify the cause is essential. Our online doctors are available to discuss your situation and provide personalised advice to help you get the best treatment for your indigestion.

Indigestion symptoms

Indigestion can cause a range of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. These symptoms may appear shortly after eating or drinking, but this is not always true. Symptoms can include

  • Coughing that gets worse when lying down.

  • Fluid that tastes bitter and acidic (acid reflux).

  • Growling stomach.

  • Stomach cramps.

  • Loss of appetite.

  • Burping.

  • Feeling sick.

  • Abdominal pain.

  • Bloating.

  • Passing wind.

  • The burning sensation caused by heartburn.

  • After eating, feeling full and heavy

Indigestion diagnosis

Before seeking stronger medications, you can treat your indigestion with over-the-counter medications or make dietary changes. Both of these methods can be used without visiting a doctor.

 

The doctor may be able to help you reduce your indigestion after you've tried to reduce it on your own. At Mobi  Doctor, you can have a video consultation with a doctor within minutes. This is the best way to get a proper diagnosis and treatment for your indigestion.

Sometimes, our doctors may need to order additional tests to determine the exact cause of indigestion and rule out other conditions. This will help to ensure that you get the appropriate treatment. A consultation is usually sufficient to diagnose, but our doctors can refer you to them if more tests are needed.

Indigestion causes

A variety of factors can contribute to indigestion, including:

  • GORD.

  • Certain medications.

  • Eating too much.

  • Gastritis.

  • Obesity.

  • Eating too quickly.

  • Alcohol.

  • Smoking.

Indigestion treatment

If you are experiencing mild indigestion, you may not need to consult a doctor, as making some lifestyle and dietary changes could be sufficient to alleviate the symptoms. Different remedies are available, and the most suitable one will depend on the cause of the indigestion.

 

Antacids and alginates are available over the counter

 to relieve indigestion.

 If the usual treatments for indigestion are ineffective, or if the symptoms are severe or long-lasting, a healthcare professional may prescribe medications that reduce the amount of stomach acid.

 

If an underlying cause for your indigestion is discovered, the treatment will be aimed at resolving the issue.

Indigestion in pregnancy

During pregnancy, indigestion is frequent and is usually not a cause for concern. Hormonal fluctuations can cause indigestion, and the enlarging uterus can pressure the stomach, allowing stomach acid to move into the oesophagus and cause a burning or painful sensation.

 

Simple dietary or lifestyle changes or over-the-counter medications may be enough to alleviate indigestion during pregnancy. However, you should seek medical attention if the condition persists or causes severe pain.

 

If you are concerned about the digestive issues you are experiencing, our medical professionals are available to assist. They can provide guidance and support to help you understand your symptoms and determine the best course of action.

 

Connect with one of our doctors at Mobi Doctor with the click of a button and receive the care you require.