What is
Indigestion?
Indigestion, or dyspepsia, is a feeling of discomfort or pain in the upper stomach, often described as burning, fullness, or aching.
Here, we’ll cover the symptoms of indigestion, how to prevent it, and the treatment options available to help you find relief.
Indigestion Causes and Symptoms
Indigestion is a term used to describe discomfort in the upper abdomen after eating.
It can include a wide variety of symptoms including:
- Pain in the upper stomach
- Burping
- Discomfort
- A burning sensation
- Getting full quickly
- Bloating
- Vomiting
Although some people may experience heartburn and indigestion, they are different symptoms.
Heartburn is the burning feeling when acid escapes into the oesophagus from the stomach.
Indigestion is related to upper abdominal discomfort and can also be called dyspepsia. What triggers indigestion can vary from person to person. Certain foods and drinks such as, alcoholic or carbonated drinks, coffee, spicy, fatty or greasy foods, can trigger indigestion.
Other causes of indigestion include:
- Eating too fast or too much
- Drinking too much alcohol, coffee or carbonated drinks
- Smoking
- Feeling stressed
Difference Between Acid Indigestion and Indigestion
Indigestion is a group of symptoms that affect the gastrointestinal system. Acid indigestion is the acid related symptoms of indigestion such as a burning sensation in the chest due to acid from the stomach rising in the oesophagus. Symptoms of acid indigestion may include heartburn, burning and discomfort behind the breastbone, nausea or regurgitation of stomach contents.
Treatment Options
for Acid Indigestion
There are some things you can do to improve your symptoms:
- Reduce alcohol consumption. If your indigestion is severe, taking a break from alcohol for a few weeks may help
- Limit your intake of coffee and carbonated drinks
- Stop smoking, as it can aggravate indigestion
- Eat smaller meals, especially in the evening, and avoid lying down soon after eating if you experience heartburn
- Identify and avoid foods that worsen your symptoms, such as fatty or spicy foods
- If you are overweight, consider losing weight to relieve pressure on your stomach
- Manage stress effectively by finding healthy coping strategies. If stress is overwhelming, seek support from a healthcare provider
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough or avoiding triggers isn’t possible, over-the-counter medications like Zantac may provide relief from acid indigestion when taken as directed.
Always speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medications to make sure they are right for you.
How Zantac helps with Acid Indigestion
Zantac tablets work by targeting the acid at its source. They reduce the production of stomach acid so less acid can rise up and burn. One easy to swallow Zantac tablet is fast-acting and long-lasting, relieving acid reflux symptoms from 30 minutes, for up to 24 hours. So you can enjoy spending time with your loved ones longer – without the uncomfortable feeling of acid indigestion.