Indigestion(Dyspepsia; Non-ulcer Dyspepsia; Non-ulcer Stomach Pain)
by
Cynthia M. Johnson, MA DefinitionIndigestion is discomfort in the upper belly or chest. It may result in pain or a burning feeling after eating. A person may also have nausea, belching, or bloating.
CausesThe exact cause is not known. It is due to an action in the stomach or intestine. Most often, it is linked to unhealthy lifestyle habits. These habits can make it hard for the body to properly digest food. Risk FactorsThese lifestyle habits may raise the risk:
SymptomsProblems may be:
When Should I Call My Doctor?It is common to have indigestion from time to time. If it gets worse or happens more often, make an appointment to see the doctor. You should also call the doctor if you have:
When Should I Call for Medical Help Right Away?Most indigestion is not serious. However, sometimes it is a sign of a more serious health problem. Call for medical help or go to the emergency room right away if you have:
DiagnosisThe doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. This is often enough to make the diagnosis. TreatmentUnderlying causes will need to be treated. The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms. Choices are: Diet and Lifestyle ChangesIt may help to eat smaller meals throughout the day instead of three large meals. A dietitian can help with meal planning. Avoiding foods and drinks that trigger symptoms may also help, such as:
Lifestyle changes that may help are:
MedicationsMedicines may be given to ease symptoms, such as:
Probiotics and prebiotics may also be advised. People who are not helped by these methods may benefit from counseling. It may help ease symptoms. PreventionHealthy diet and lifestyle habits may lower the risk 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:Chisty A. (2021). Update on Indigestion. The Medical clinics of North America, 105(1), 19–30. Dyspepsia. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at:
https://familydoctor.org/condition/dyspepsia.
Accessed February 3, 2021.
Functional dyspepsia. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
https://www.dynamed.com/condition/functional-dyspepsia. Accessed February 3, 2021.
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 February 3, 2021. Moayyedi PM, Lacy BE, et al. ACG and CAG Clinical Guideline: Management of Dyspepsia. Am J Gastroenterol. 2017 Jul;112(7):988-1013. Last reviewed December 2020 by EBSCO Medical Review Board
Dianne Scheinberg Rishikof MS, RD, LDN Last Updated: 2/3/2021 | |
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