Indigestion – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of indigestion usually starts with a discussion about the person’s symptoms. These symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, bloating, heartburn, gas, diarrhea, and burning or epigastric pain.
The provider asks about the patient’s health history and performs a physical exam. If the symptoms are mild and there are no warning signs like weight loss or jaundice, these steps may be enough.
When symptoms are severe, start suddenly, or do not get better, providers order more tests. Some of these include:
- Blood tests to check for anemia, inflammation, pancreatitis, or metabolic issues.
- Breath or stool tests to detect Helicobacter pylori infection.
- Upper endoscopy to look for gastritis, ulcers, or inflammation; providers may take a biopsy.
- Imaging, such as X-rays or CT scans, to find gallstones or blockages.
Providers use these tests to identify main causes like gastroesophageal reflux, dyspepsia, or other digestive conditions.
Treatment
Treatment for indigestion often starts with lifestyle adjustments. People should identify and avoid foods that trigger their symptoms.
Eating smaller, more frequent meals and limiting alcohol or caffeine can help. Stress management strategies may also help reduce symptoms.
Table: Common Steps and Medicines Used for Indigestion
| Step | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Avoid trigger foods | Reduce symptom flare-ups |
| Small, frequent meals | Avoid overloading the stomach |
| Limit alcohol/caffeine | Decrease irritation |
| Switch pain relievers | Prevent medicine-induced discomfort |
If symptoms continue, several medicines can help:
- Antacids neutralize stomach acid.
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H-2-receptor blockers lower stomach acid and relieve acid reflux, GERD, and reflux esophagitis.
- Prokinetics support better stomach emptying, especially for people with gastroparesis.
- Antibiotics treat bacterial causes like H. pylori, which can cause peptic ulcers.
Doctors may also recommend medicines for anxiety or depression if other treatments do not work.
Lifestyle tips and home practices
People can manage mild indigestion by making a few simple changes in daily life. Eating smaller portions more often and chewing food well can help with digestion.
| Factor | Recommended Change |
|---|---|
| Food Choices | Limit fatty, spicy, and processed foods |
| Drinks | Reduce alcohol, caffeine, sodas |
| Smoking | Quit smoking |
| Eating Habits | Eat smaller meals, chew thoroughly |
| Physical Activity | Exercise regularly |
| Stress | Practice relaxation and get enough sleep |
Avoiding fatty meals, spicy dishes, and processed snacks is often helpful. Alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks may make symptoms worse, as can smoking.
Keeping a steady weight helps reduce pressure on the stomach. Staying active with regular exercise benefits digestion and weight control.
Stress and anxiety can affect indigestion. Practicing deep breathing, meditation, and getting enough sleep may reduce symptoms.
Changing or reducing certain medications with a doctorโs advice could help limit stomach irritation.
Non-Traditional Therapies
Many people use alternative practices to help with digestive discomfort and conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Some find relief through herbal treatments such as peppermint oil, caraway oil, and herbal blends like rikkunshito or Iberogast (STW 5).
Other therapies focus on the mind and body. These may include:
- Meditation
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Relaxation techniques
- Hypnotherapy
- Yoga
Some people use acupuncture to target nerve pathways and manage pain. Before starting any supplement or new therapy, consult a health professional. This step helps avoid unwanted reactions with medicines or health concerns.
Getting Ready for Your Visit
Steps to Take Before Your Appointment
Patients can take several steps to make their doctor visit more effective. Check for any instructions or restrictions before the appointment, such as avoiding food or drink for a certain period.
Write down all symptoms, including when they began, how often they occur, and if they have changed. This information helps the doctor understand the situation.
Make a complete list of all current medications, vitamins, and supplements. Bring this list to the appointment to avoid missing important details.
Note any other health problems, especially if you have been diagnosed with other medical conditions. Daily habits can affect digestive health, so write down a typical daily diet and any big changes or sources of stress.
Include whether you use tobacco, alcohol, or any over-the-counter pain relievers or medicines. To remember everything, keep a notebook or use a smartphone to track these details.
Questions to discuss with the healthcare provider may include:
- What could be causing my indigestion or upset stomach?
- Is this likely to be a long-term issue?
- What tests might be needed to find the cause?
- What treatments work best, and are there lifestyle changes to consider?
- Should I change my diet, and are any foods or drinks best avoided?
- Could any current medications be related to my symptoms?
A sample table of helpful preparation steps:
| Task | Purpose |
|---|---|
| List symptoms | Helps doctor understand condition |
| Bring medicine list | Checks for possible medicine causes |
| Track diet/history | Finds food triggers or lifestyle factors |
| Prepare questions | Makes best use of appointment time |
Questions Your Provider May Ask
Doctors usually ask detailed questions to understand the causes of indigestion or other stomach issues. They often want to know when the symptoms started and if they have gotten better or worse.
The doctor may ask whether symptoms come and go or last most of the time.
Common questions may include:
- What foods and drinks do you usually have each day?
- Does anything help relieve your discomfort?
- Do certain foods, activities, or medicines make your symptoms worse?
- Have you noticed any changes in your bowel habits, such as dark or black stools?
- Have you lost weight, vomited, or had a change in appetite?
- Have you had severe nausea or vomited blood or black material?
- How have you been feeling emotionally, and have you had any recent stress?
- Is your upset stomach worse when your stomach is empty?
- Do you smoke or use tobacco?
Doctors also want to know if you use alcohol or other substances. Honest and complete answers help your provider find the causes and choose the right tests or treatments.
