Indigestion(Dyspepsia; Non-ulcer Dyspepsia; Non-ulcer Stomach Pain)
by
Rhianon Davies DefinitionIndigestion is discomfort in the upper belly or chest. It may result in pain or a burning feeling after eating. You may also have nausea, belching, or bloating.
Causes TOPThe exact cause is not known. It is due to an action in the stomach or intestine. Most often, the condition is linked to unhealthy lifestyle habits. These habits can make it hard for the body to properly digest food. Risk Factors TOPThe following lifestyle factors increase your chances of indigestion:
Symptoms TOPIndigestion can have number of symptoms including:
When Should I Call My Doctor?It is common to have indigestion occasionally. If the episodes worsen or happen more frequently, make an appointment to see your doctor. If you have indigestion, important reasons to call your doctor include:
When Should I Call for Medical Help Immediately?Most indigestion is not serious. Some can be a sign of a more serious condition. Call for medical help or go to the emergency room right away if you have:
Diagnosis TOPYou will be asked about your symptoms. The doctor will also ask about your health history. The diagnosis will be made mainly on your symptoms. Treatment TOPYour doctor will suggest a plan based on your symptoms. Treatment options may include the following: Dietary and Lifestyle ChangesSymptoms may be relieved by one or more of the following:
MedicationsMedications your doctor may recommend include:
Prevention TOPTo help reduce the chance of indigestion:
RESOURCES:American College of Gastroenterology http://gi.org American Gastroenterological Association http://www.gastro.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Association of Gastroenterology https://www.cag-acg.org The College of Family Physicians of Canada http://www.cfpc.ca References:Dyspepsia. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at:
https://familydoctor.org/condition/dyspepsia/.
Updated February 2014. Accessed December 15, 2017.
Functional dyspepsia. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed...
. Updated September 1, 2016. Accessed December 15, 2017.
Indigestion (dyspepsia). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/indigestion-dyspepsia. Accessed December 15, 2017. Last reviewed November 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Marcie L. Sidman, MD Last Updated: 7/12/2018 | |
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