Handy Man Source

Indigestion is a condition that is often caused by eating too fast, especially by eating foods high in fat quickly. Indigestion takes the form of gas, bloating, heartburn and abdominal pain and can cause great discomfort for the sufferer. Avoiding foods and situations that seem to cause indigestion is the most effective way to treat it. Excess stomach acid does not cause or the result of indigestion, so antacids are not an appropriate treatment, although some people report that helps. Smokers can help relieve their indigestion by quitting smoking, or at least not smoking right before eating. Exercising with a full stomach can cause indigestion, so scheduling exercise before a meal or at least an hour later, might help. Patients with the esophagitis type of indigestion are often treated with H2 antagonists. H2 antagonists are drugs that block the secretion of gastric acid. They include ranitidine (Zantac) and famotidine (Pepcid). Patients with movement disorders may be given prokinetic drugs. Prokinetic medications speed up the emptying of the stomach and increase intestinal motility. They include metoclopramide (Reglan) and cisapride (Propulsid). These drugs relieve symptoms in 60-80% of patients. Smokers may be advised to quit smoking or avoid smoking before meals. Also, exercising after a meal may be a cause of indigestion, so scheduling exercise before a meal, or waiting at least an hour after a meal may also help prevent indigestion. Practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine may recommend herbal medicines derived from peony (Paeonia lactiflora), hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa), or rabbit ear (Bupleurum chinense) to treat indigestion. Western herbalists may prescribe fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), or peppermint (Mentha piperita) to relieve stomach cramps and heartburn. If you experience indigestion frequently, see your doctor, who will try to determine when your indigestion occurs, foods and beverages that seem to trigger, in which part of the abdomen the discomfort is stronger, and for how long usually l ' last. Your doctor may also want to run a series of tests to make sure that your indigestion is caused by more serious conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, colon cancer, stomach ulcer, gastritis, diseases of the pancreas, or syndrome irritable bowel. A barium X-ray, endoscopy of the digestive tract, or stool sample may be necessary. In order to exclude diseases of the pancreas, liver or gallbladder, your doctor may also recommend an ultrasound examination of these organs. If over-the-counter products do not offer relief, your doctor may prescribe cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac), famotidine (Pepcid), or omeprazole (Prilosec) to block production of acid in the stomach. A drug that increases the resistance of the lower esophageal sphincter, as metocopramide or bethanechol, also may be prescribed. Heartburn for the symptoms that occur during the night, may help to sleep in a slightly more upright position, because the action of gravity reduces reflux. To help prevent indigestion, the best advice is to eat regular meals and a balanced diet to maintain a healthy weight. Do not smoke or drink alcohol in large quantities. All the factors listed above (such as smoking and alcohol), as well as the misuse of any drug should be discontinued if possible. Non-ulcer dyspepsia often begins at a time of stress. Stress can not be easily avoided, but there are many ways you can do with it. Avoiding terms (particularly the self-imposed ones) is important. Delegating more responsibility should be tried, if possible. Learn to say no a bit 'more often, and make sure that there are proper evening and weekends. Regular exercise and the distraction of a hobby can be useful. Above all, the problems should be discussed openly. Bottled-feelings and concerns are a major cause of stress.