Simple Steps Ease Indigestion, Reflux
Frequent problems this time of year.
During the holiday season your stomach may have a lot to complain about. That’s because many causes of indigestion occur frequently this time of year.
Some of the more common triggers of an upset stomach include: Eating too much, too fast or too late at night; indulging in spicy or fatty foods; drinking caffeinated or alcoholic beverages; smoking; swallowing air; carrying excess weight; and exposure to stress or fatigue.
These factors can lead to upper abdominal pain or discomfort after a meal. Other symptoms include burping, bloating, heartburn, nausea and vomiting. The two main causes of these symptoms are indigestion and gastroesophageal reflux.
Here’s a brief explanation of these terms.
Indigestion
The medical term is dyspepsia, meaning any kind of upper abdominal pain or discomfort following a meal. Other symptoms include burping, bloating, nausea and vomiting. The condition is common in the general population.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease
This is also known as GERD. In this condition the opening between your esophagus and stomach relaxes, allowing food to reflux, or move from the stomach back up into the esophagus. Symptoms include a burning pain in your chest (heartburn), sour taste in your mouth, sore throat, trouble swallowing, coughing or difficulty breathing.
People who smoke, are pregnant or overweight, or have diabetes, asthma or delayed emptying or herniation of the stomach are more likely to develop the disorder.
Seek medical care
Check with your doctor if you have digestive difficulties, especially if your symptoms are frequent, persistent or severe. Serious causes can be detected and treatment can be provided to alleviate the discomfort.
There are also several steps you can take at home to ease the symptoms of indigestion or GERD:
Avoid tobacco products, alcohol, caffeinated beverages, chocolate, mint; and fatty, spicy, or acidic foods such as citrus or tomatoes.
Lose weight if you are overweight.
Eat small, frequent meals four to six times a day.
Wear loose-fitting clothing. Avoid exercising, bending over or straining after eating.
Don’t eat or drink for three to four hours before bedtime.
Raise the head of your bed on four-to-six-inch blocks.
Relax at mealtime. It will help improve your digestion.
Colorful chilis can add spice to a meal but can set off indigestion or reflux in susceptible individuals.
This newsletter is for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment; before adhering to any recommendations in this newsletter consult your healthcare provider.