Indigestion
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
Indigestion, or dyspepsia, is stomach discomfort, feeling full quickly, or pain or burning in your esophagus or stomach. The cause may not be known.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Return to the emergency department if:
- You have trouble swallowing.
- You have severe abdominal pain that does not go away even after you take pain medicine.
- Your bowel movement is black or you vomit blood.
- You have severe nausea or vomiting.
- You feel a mass or lump in your abdomen.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You have pain, discomfort, or constipation.
- You have moderate nausea with vomiting and bloating.
- Your skin looks pale, and you feel weaker and more tired than usual.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
- Medicines may be given to help decrease the amount of acid in your stomach.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Manage your symptoms:
- Do not eat foods that can irritate your stomach , such as spicy or fatty foods. Do not have drinks that contain caffeine or alcohol. Chocolate, peppermint, spearmint, and citrus may also make your symptoms worse. Eat small meals several times a day instead of large meals.
- Limit medicines that irritate your stomach , such as NSAIDs, steroids, or narcotics. Your healthcare provider may suggest another medicine that is less irritating. Ask your healthcare provider before you take any over-the-counter medicine.
- Find ways to decrease stress. Learn new ways to relax, such as exercise, deep breathing, meditation, or listening to music.
- Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can cause indigestion. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:
You may be referred to a gastroenterologist. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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