What are the symptoms of indigestion? When do you need to see a doctor for indigestion? What causes indigestion and how can it be treated? Get the answers to these questions and more in this comprehensive article.

Symptoms of Indigestion

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms in the upper abdomen. Common symptoms of indigestion include:

• Pain, burning, or discomfort in the upper abdomen
• Feeling full too soon while eating a meal
• Feeling uncomfortably full after eating a meal
• Bloating
• Burping
• Burping up food or liquid
• Loud growling or gurgling in the stomach
• Nausea
• Gas

Indigestion can sometimes be accompanied by heartburn, but the two conditions are separate. Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus.

When to See a Doctor for Indigestion

You should see a doctor right away if you have indigestion along with any of the following symptoms, as they may indicate a more serious underlying condition:

• Black, tarry stools
• Bloody vomit
• Difficulty or painful swallowing
• Frequent vomiting
• Unintentional weight loss
• Chest, jaw, neck, or arm pain
• Severe and constant abdominal pain
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin

You should also see a doctor if your indigestion lasts for more than 2 weeks.

Causes of Indigestion

Indigestion can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Consuming too much alcohol, coffee, or carbonated drinks
• Eating too quickly or too much during a meal
• Consuming spicy, fatty, or acidic foods
• Stress
• Smoking
• Certain medications, such as antibiotics or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Underlying health conditions, such as acid reflux, gallbladder inflammation, gastritis, gastroparesis, H. pylori infection, irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance, or peptic ulcer disease
• Functional dyspepsia, a condition where the cause is unknown but may be related to factors like gastroparesis, small intestine inflammation, or psychological problems

Treating Indigestion

The treatment for indigestion will depend on the underlying cause. In many cases, simple dietary and lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms, such as:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Quitting smoking
• Avoiding trigger foods like spicy, fatty, or acidic items
• Eating smaller, more frequent meals
• Limiting alcohol, coffee, and carbonated drinks
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques or therapy

If these changes don’t provide relief, over-the-counter or prescription medications may be recommended to reduce stomach acid or address other underlying conditions. In some cases, more specialized treatment may be necessary, such as for acid reflux or peptic ulcers.

Prevention of Indigestion

To help prevent indigestion, it’s important to be mindful of your diet and lifestyle habits. Some tips for prevention include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding trigger foods and drinks
• Eating smaller, more frequent meals
• Quitting smoking
• Managing stress

By understanding the common causes and symptoms of indigestion, and making appropriate lifestyle changes, many people can find relief and prevent recurring episodes.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience persistent or severe indigestion symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention. Your doctor can help determine the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment. Don’t hesitate to make an appointment if your indigestion lasts more than 2 weeks or is accompanied by concerning symptoms like those mentioned earlier.

Conclusion

Indigestion is a common, yet unpleasant, condition that can be caused by a variety of factors. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and effective treatment and prevention strategies, many people can find relief and avoid the discomfort of recurring episodes. If you have persistent or severe indigestion, don’t hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and management plan.

Symptoms & Causes of Indigestion

What are the symptoms of indigestion?

When you have indigestion, you may have one or more of the following symptoms:

• pain, a burning feeling, or discomfort in your upper abdomen
• feeling full too soon while eating a meal
• feeling uncomfortably full after eating a meal
• bloating
• burping

Other symptoms may include

• burping up food or liquid
• loud growling or gurgling in your stomach
• nausea
• gas

Sometimes when you have indigestion, you may also have heartburn. However, heartburn and indigestion are two separate conditions.

When you have indigestion, you may have pain, a burning feeling, or discomfort in your upper abdomen.

Seek care right away

If you have indigestion and any of the following symptoms, you may have a more serious condition and should see a doctor right away:

• black, tarlike stools
• bloody vomit
• difficulty swallowing or painful swallowing
• frequent vomiting
• losing weight without trying
• pain in your chest, jaw, neck, or arm
• severe and constant pain in your abdomen
• shortness of breath
• sweating
• yellowing of your eyes or skin

You should also see a doctor if your indigestion lasts longer than 2 weeks.

What causes indigestion?

Some of the causes of indigestion include

• drinking
  • too many alcoholic beverages
  • too much coffee or too many drinks containing caffeine
  • too many carbonated, or fizzy, drinks
• eating
  • too fast or too much during a meal
  • spicy, fatty, or greasy foods
  • foods that contain a lot of acid, such as tomatoes, tomato products, and oranges
• feeling stressed
• smoking

Some medicines can cause indigestion, such as

• certain antibiotics—medicines that kill bacteria
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Health problems and digestive tract diseases and conditions can cause indigestion, including

• acid reflux (GER and GERD)
• anxiety or depression
• gallbladder inflammation
• gastritis
• gastroparesis
• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection
• irritable bowel syndrome
• lactose intolerance
• peptic ulcer disease
• stomach cancer

Researchers do not know what causes functional dyspepsia. Some research³ suggests that the following factors may play a role in functional dyspepsia:

• eating
• gastroparesis
• problems in the first part of your small intestine, including inflammation and being overly sensitive to stomach acids
• infection by microorganisms such as H. pylori, Salmonella, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Campylobacter, giardia, or norovirus
• psychological problems, especially anxiety
• genes—a trait passed from parent to child

References

Last Reviewed November 2016

Share this page

Facebook
Twitter
Email



WhatsApp
LinkedIn
Reddit
Pinterest

Previous:
Definition & Facts

Next:
Diagnosis

This content is provided as a service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
(NIDDK), part of the National Institutes of Health. The NIDDK translates and disseminates research findings to increase knowledge and understanding about health and disease among patients, health professionals, and the public. Content produced by the NIDDK is carefully reviewed by NIDDK scientists and other experts.

Indigestion – Illnesses & conditions

Treatment for indigestion (dyspepsia) will vary, depending on what is causing it and how severe your symptoms are.

If you have been diagnosed with an underlying health condition, you may want to read our information on:

• treating gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
• treating a stomach ulcer

Diet and lifestyle changes

If you only have indigestion occasionally, you may not need to see your pharmacist or GP for treatment. It may be possible to ease your symptoms by making a few simple changes to your diet and lifestyle, summarised below.

Healthy weight

Being overweight puts more pressure on your stomach, making it easier for stomach acid to be pushed back up into your gullet (oesophagus). This is known as acid reflux, and is one of the most common causes of indigestion.

If you are overweight or obese, it is important to lose weight safely and steadily through regular exercise and by eating a healthy, balanced diet. Read advice on losing weight.

Stop smoking

If you smoke, the chemicals you inhale in cigarette smoke may contribute to your indigestion. These chemicals can cause the ring of muscle that separates your oesophagus from your stomach to relax, causing acid reflux.

Read more about quitting smoking, or speak to your GP or pharmacist. You can also call the Quit Your Way Scotland service on 0800 84 84 84 (8.00am to 10.00pm, every day).

Diet and alcohol

Make a note of any particular food or drink that seems to make your indigestion worse, and avoid these if possible. This may mean:

• eating less rich, spicy and fatty foods
• cutting down on drinks that contain caffeine – such as tea, coffee and cola
• avoiding or cutting down on alcohol

At bedtime

If you tend to experience indigestion symptoms at night, avoid eating for three to four hours before you go to bed. Going to bed with a full stomach means there is an increased risk that acid in your stomach will be forced up into your oesophagus while you are lying down.

When you go to bed, use a couple of pillows to prop your head and shoulders up or, ideally, raise the head of your bed by a few inches by putting something underneath the mattress. The slight slope that is created should help to prevent stomach acid moving up into your oesophagus while you are asleep.

Stress or anxiety

If you regularly experience feelings of stress or anxiety, this can contribute to symptoms of indigestion.

Read some relaxation tips to relieve stress.

Changing current medication

Your pharmacist may recommend making changes to your current medication if they think it could be contributing to your indigestion.

As long as it is safe to do so, you may need to stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen. Where required, your pharmacist may advise you see your GP to prescribe an alternative medication that will not cause indigestion. However, never stop taking any medication without consulting your pharmacist or GP first.

Immediate indigestion relief

If you have indigestion that requires immediate relief, your pharmacist can advise you about the best way to treat this. As well as lifestyle changes and reviewing your current medication, your GP may prescribe or recommend:

• antacid medicines
• alginates

These are described in more detail below.

Antacids

Antacids are a type of medicine that can provide immediate relief for mild to moderate symptoms of indigestion. They work by neutralising the acid in your stomach (making it less acidic), so that it no longer irritates the lining of your digestive system.

Antacids are available in tablet and liquid form. You can buy them over the counter from most pharmacies without a prescription.

The effect of an antacid only lasts for a few hours at a time, so you may need to take more than one dose. Always follow the instructions on the packet to ensure you do not take too much.

It is best to take antacids when you are expecting symptoms of indigestion, or when they start to occur, such as:

• after meals
• at bedtime

This is because antacids stay in your stomach for longer at these times and have more time to work. For example, if you take an antacid at the same time as eating a meal, it can work for up to three hours. In comparison, if you take an antacid on an empty stomach, it may only work for 20 to 60 minutes.

Read more about antacids, including possible interactions with other medicines and side effects.

Alginates

Some antacids also contain a medicine called an alginate. This helps relieve indigestion caused by acid reflux.

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid leaks back up into your oesophagus and irritates its lining. Alginates form a foam barrier that floats on the surface of your stomach contents, keeping stomach acid in your stomach and away from your oesophagus.

Your pharmacist may suggest that you take an antacid that contains an alginate if you experience symptoms of acid reflux or if you have GORD.

Take antacids containing alginates after eating, because this helps the medicine stay in your stomach for longer. If you take alginates on an empty stomach, they will leave your stomach too quickly to be effective.

Treating persistent indigestion

If you have indigestion that is persistent or recurring, treatment with antacids and alginates may not be effective enough to control your symptoms. Your pharmacist may recommend a different type of medication, which will be prescribed at the lowest possible dose to control your symptoms. Possible medications include:

• proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
• h3-receptor antagonists

These are described in more detail below. Your pharmacist may advise you to see your GP who may also test you for the Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) bacteria (see Indigestion – diagnosis) and prescribe treatment for this if necessary.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

PPIs restrict the acid produced in your stomach.

The medication is taken as tablets and if you are over 18, you can buy some types of PPIs over the counter in pharmacies, but these should only be used for short-term treatment. PPIs may enhance the effect of certain medicines. If you are prescribed a PPI, your progress will be monitored if you are also taking other medicines, such as:

• warfarin – a medicine that stops the blood clotting
• phenytoin – a medicine to treat epilepsy

If your ingestion is persistent, your pharmacist might advise you to see your GP.

If your GP refers you for an endoscopy (a procedure that allows a surgeon to see inside your abdomen), you will need to stop taking a PPI at least 14 days before the procedure. This is because PPIs can hide some of the problems that would otherwise be spotted during the endoscopy.

PPIs can sometimes cause side effects. However, they are usually mild and reversible. These side effects may include:

• headaches
• diarrhoea
• constipation
• feeling sick (nausea)
• vomiting
• flatulence
• stomach pain
• dizziness
• skin rashes

h3-receptor antagonists

h3-receptor antagonists are another type of medication that your pharmacist or GP may suggest if antacids, alginates and PPIs have not been effective in controlling your indigestion. There are four h3-receptor antagonists:

• cimetidine 
• famotidine 
• nizatidine 
• ranitidine 

These medicines work by lowering the acidity level in your stomach.

Your GP may prescribe any one of these four h3-receptor antagonists, although ranitidine is available from pharmacies under the Pharmacy First Scotland service. h3-receptor antagonists are usually taken in tablet form.

As with PPIs, you will need to stop taking h3-receptor antagonists at least 14 days before having an endoscopy if this has been arranged through your GP. This is because they can hide some of the problems that could otherwise be spotted during the endoscopy.

Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) infection

If your indigestion symptoms are caused by an infection with H pylori bacteria, you will need to have treatment to clear the infection from your stomach. This should help relieve your indigestion, because the H pylori bacteria will no longer be increasing the amount of acid in your stomach.

H pylori infection is usually treated using triple therapy (treatment with three different medications). Your GP will prescribe a course of treatment containing:

• two different antibiotics (medicines to treat infections that are caused by bacteria)
• a PPI

You will need to take these medicines twice a day for seven days. You must follow the dosage instructions closely to ensure that the triple therapy is effective.

In up to 85% of cases, one course of triple therapy is effective in clearing an H pylori infection. However, you may need to have more than one course of treatment if it does not clear the infection the first time.

Major digestive disorders: symptoms, causes and treatment

Contents

• 1 Digestive disorders
  • 1.1 Major digestive disorders:
  • 1.2 Gastritis:
  • 1.3 9000 8
  • 1.4 Gastric ulcer:
  • 1.5 Pancreatitis:
  • 1.6 Hepatitis:
  • 1.7 Cholecystitis:
  • 1. 8 Colitis:
  • 1.9 Intestinal infection:
  • 1.10 Reflux esophageal disease:
  • 1.11 Dysbacteriosis:
  • 1.12 Irritable bowel syndrome:
  • 1.13 Gastroesophageal reflux disease:
  • 1.14 Fences:
  • 1.15 Related videos:
  • 1.16 Q&A:
    900 05
    • 1.16.0.1 What are the main symptoms of digestive disorders?
    • 1.16.0.2 What are the causes of digestive disorders?
    • 1.16.0.3 How are digestive disorders treated?

Digestive disorders are a group of diseases that affect the normal functioning of the digestive system. They can manifest as diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, nausea, bloating, and other symptoms. Learn the causes, symptoms, and treatments for digestive disorders to keep your digestive system healthy.

The digestive system is one of the most important systems in the body. Restoring and maintaining her health is most important for overall well-being. However, sometimes digestion can be disturbed due to various factors, which leads to the occurrence of disorders.

One common digestive disorder is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The main symptoms characteristic of IBS are pain and discomfort in the abdomen, constipation or diarrhea, and bloating. Although the causes of IBS are not fully understood, it is believed that emotional stress, poor diet, and changes in the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract may contribute to the development of this disorder.

Another digestive disorder is gastritis, inflammation of the stomach lining. The main symptoms of gastritis are pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen, heartburn, nausea and vomiting. Causes of gastritis can range from Helicobacter pylori infection to stress and malnutrition. Treatment for gastritis usually includes taking medication to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms, as well as adjusting diet and lifestyle.

Also of note is gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), a digestive disorder in which the contents of the stomach rise up the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest (heartburn) and discomfort. The main cause of GERD is a weakened sphincter that separates the stomach and esophagus, as well as increased pressure in the stomach. Treatment for GERD may include lifestyle and diet changes, medication, and in some cases, surgery may be required.

Major digestive disorders:

1. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

GERD is a chronic condition in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. This can cause heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest, and discomfort when eating. The causes of GERD may be a decrease in the tone of the cardiac sphincter, damage to the mucosa of the esophagus, and increased pressure in the abdominal cavity.

2. Peptic ulcer

Peptic ulcer disease is characterized by the formation of ulcers on the mucous membrane of the stomach or duodenum. Symptoms of a peptic ulcer may include epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, signs of bleeding (black or bloody vomit, rattling in the abdomen). The main causes of peptic ulcers are Helicobacter pylori infection, the use of certain drugs, smoking and stress.

3. Disorders of gastric motor function

Disorders of the motor function of the stomach can be caused by low or high tone of the muscles of the stomach or incoordination of their contractions. This can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, a feeling of fullness or incomplete emptying of the stomach, abdominal pain, and poor digestion. Some medications, stress, endocrine disorders, and neurological diseases can be the causes of gastric motility disorders.

4. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a chronic functional bowel disorder characterized by pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen, accompanied by a change in the frequency or consistency of stools. Symptoms may include constipation, diarrhea, a feeling of incomplete bowel movements, bloating, and feeling unwell after eating. The causes of IBS can be changes in the work of the nervous system of the intestine, food intolerance, stress and psycho-emotional factors.

Gastritis:

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining. The main symptom of gastritis is pain in the epigastric region. Pain can be of varying intensity and periodically occur after eating. In patients with gastritis, digestive disorders are observed, such as belching, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting. Changes in appetite (weakening or loss). Hair loss, brittle nails – one of the signs of prolonged gastritis.

It is important to remember that self-treatment of gastritis can lead to complications and aggravation of the condition. If characteristic symptoms appear, you should consult a doctor for professional help and proper treatment.

Yes, to lose weight

0%

Yes, for health

0%

Stomach ulcer:

Stomach ulcer is a chronic disease characterized by the formation of an ulcer on the wall of the stomach. It often leads to pain and discomfort in the stomach. Symptoms of a stomach ulcer may include: burning and pain in the epigastric region, belching, nausea, vomiting, a feeling of fullness and causing changes in appetite.

Gastric ulcers can be caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which colonizes the gastric mucosa and causes inflammation and tissue destruction. Other risk factors for stomach ulcers include mucosal injury, the use of certain medications (such as aspirin or certain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and alcohol and smoking abuse.

Antacids and drugs that reduce stomach acid are often used to treat stomach ulcers. In addition, antibacterial treatment may be prescribed to kill Helicobacter pylori. Nutrition also plays an important role in the treatment of stomach ulcers: it is recommended to avoid spicy, fatty and acidic foods, as well as control food intake and alcohol consumption. Damaged gastric mucosa should be carefully monitored and anything that can aggravate stomach ulcer symptoms should be avoided.

Pancreatitis:

Pancreatitis is an inflammatory disease of the pancreas that can be acute or chronic. Acute pancreatitis most often develops under the influence of alcohol or gallstones, which block the release of bile and pancreatic enzymes. Chronic pancreatitis, in turn, is caused by long-term exposure to various factors such as smoking, alcohol and uncontrolled consumption of fatty foods.

Various tests may be done to diagnose pancreatitis, including CBC, biochemistry, ultrasound, CT, and MRI. Treatment for pancreatitis may include anti-inflammatory and antibacterial drugs, diet, enzyme preparations, and, in some cases, surgery.

Hepatitis:

Hepatitis is an inflammatory disease of the liver that can be caused by infection, toxic substances, or autoimmune disorders. There are different types of hepatitis, including viral hepatitis, alcoholic hepatitis, and autoimmune hepatitis.

The main symptoms of hepatitis include fatigue, weakness, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, and loss of appetite. Viral hepatitis can be transmitted through infectious blood, sexual contact, or shared needles. Alcoholic hepatitis develops due to excessive alcohol consumption, while autoimmune hepatitis occurs due to the immune system attacking the liver’s own cells.

Treatment for hepatitis depends on the type and severity of the hepatitis. Viral hepatitis can be treated with antiviral drugs, alcoholic hepatitis requires alcohol cessation, and autoimmune hepatitis requires immunosuppressive therapy. If symptoms of hepatitis are severe, hospitalization and special procedures, such as a liver transplant, may be required.

Cholecystitis:

Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, usually caused by a blockage of the bile ducts by stones or infection. Symptoms of cholecystitis may include pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, yellowness of the skin and eyes, fever, and nausea.

The diagnosis of cholecystitis can be made after a physical examination, laboratory tests, and educational procedures such as an ultrasound of the gallbladder. Treatment may include drugs to relieve inflammation and pain, and in some cases, surgical removal of the gallbladder may be required.

Prevention of cholecystitis includes proper nutrition, avoidance of excess fat intake and weight control. Regular physical activity and avoidance of smoking are also recommended, as these factors may increase the risk of developing cholecystitis.

Colitis:

Colitis is an inflammatory disease of the colon that can be acute or chronic. Symptoms of colitis include abdominal pain, frequent or irregular stools, diarrhea or constipation, blood or mucus in the stool, fatigue, and weight loss. This disease can have various causes, such as infections (bacterial, viral, or parasitic), autoimmune processes, disruption of the gut microbiome, or psychological factors.

Treatment of colitis involves various approaches, depending on its cause and form. In the early stages, acute colitis can be relieved by taking anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, or antispasmodics to relieve pain and intestinal hypertonicity. Chronic colitis requires complex treatment, including diet therapy, physiotherapy, probiotics, drugs that normalize the intestinal microflora, and psychological assistance.

For colitis, traditional medicine can be used, including herbal preparations with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. For example, tea made from chamomile, oak bark, St. John’s wort, or yarrow can have a beneficial effect on intestinal health. However, before starting treatment, it is recommended to consult a doctor in order to exclude the possibility of negative interactions between drugs.

Intestinal infection:

Intestinal infection is an acute disease caused by pathogenic microorganisms that enter the human digestive system. One of the most common causes of intestinal infection is the consumption of contaminated food or water.

Symptoms of an intestinal infection may include diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, fever, and general weakness. Patients may also experience loss of appetite and dehydration. In some cases, intestinal infection can lead to serious complications, especially in children, the elderly and immunocompromised people.

To diagnose an intestinal infection, your doctor may order stool tests to look for bacteria or other pathogens. Treatment for an intestinal infection includes symptomatic therapy to relieve symptoms, as well as antibiotics if the infection is caused by bacteria.

Prevention of intestinal infection can be achieved by good hygiene practices such as washing hands regularly before eating, using clean water, and cooking with thorough heat. It is also recommended to avoid eating raw or undercooked food, especially in countries with a high risk of intestinal infection.

Reflux esophageal disease:

Reflux esophageal disease (RED) is a chronic disorder of the digestive system characterized by an excessive rise of stomach contents down the esophagus. The main cause of REB is a weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter, which normally prevents backflow of gastric contents. This weakening can be caused by a variety of factors, including increased pressure in the stomach, hiatal hernia, impaired digestion, and reduced esophageal motility.

The main symptom of REB is heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest, usually after eating or lying down. In addition, patients with REB may experience a feeling of pressure or burning in the mouth, a sensation of a lump in the throat, frequent or painful swallowing, vomiting, or gagging after eating.

Treatment for REB may include lifestyle changes, including reduced intake of fatty and spicy foods, avoiding smoking and alcohol, raising the head of the bed when sleeping, reducing stress, and avoiding factors that worsen symptoms. In addition, medications such as antacids, proton pump inhibitors, and prokinetics may be prescribed to improve digestion and reduce stomach acid.

In some cases, patients may need surgery to correct a problem with the lower esophageal sphincter or to repair damaged parts of the esophagus. However, a decision on surgical treatment should be made only after careful discussion and assessment of the benefits and risks of this procedure in each case.

Dysbacteriosis:

Dysbacteriosis is a disorder of the balance of microorganisms in the digestive tract, caused by a deterioration in the colonization of beneficial bacteria and an increase in pathogenic flora. The main symptom of dysbacteriosis is a violation of the stool, such as diarrhea, constipation, or alternation of these conditions.

The reasons for the development of dysbacteriosis can be malnutrition, antibiotics, stress, decreased immunity and other factors. An unbalanced diet rich in fatty and sweet foods can lead to an increase in pathogenic microflora and the appearance of dysbacteriosis.

Treatment of dysbacteriosis includes nutrition correction, taking probiotics (microorganisms that help restore normal microflora) and drugs that kill pathogenic flora. An important point in the treatment of dysbacteriosis is the elimination of the cause of its occurrence, for example, the abolition of antibiotics or the reduction of stress.

In order to prevent dysbacteriosis, it is recommended to eat foods rich in fiber, vitamins and microelements. Regular consumption of yogurt and other dairy products contributes to the maintenance of normal microflora. It is also useful to limit the consumption of sweets and fatty foods, which will help to avoid the multiplication of pathogenic microflora.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional disorder of the digestive system characterized by a constellation of symptoms including gastrointestinal distress and abdominal pain. IBS is one of the most common diseases of the digestive system and can significantly reduce the patient’s quality of life.

The symptoms of IBS can be varied and include: abdominal pain, discomfort, constipation, diarrhea, changes in stool consistency, bloating, feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowels, and other gastrointestinal disturbances. Pain usually travels through the intestines and is often associated with certain activities, such as eating or stressful situations.

The causes of IBS are not fully understood, but it is believed that factors such as: impaired intestinal motility, changes in pain perception, possible pathological changes in the intestine, malfunction of the thyroid gland associated with the intestine, and other factors can influence its development.

The treatment of IBS includes complex therapy aimed at eliminating symptoms and improving the patient’s quality of life. The main methods of treating IBS include: diet therapy, physiotherapy, taking probiotics and drugs that affect the motility and general condition of the intestine, as well as psychotherapy aimed at reducing stress and improving the mental state of the patient.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic disease of the digestive system characterized by backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus. This is due to a weakened or inadequate functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter, which separates the stomach from the esophagus.

The main symptom of GERD is a burning sensation in the chest area known as heartburn. Heartburn can be acute or chronic and is felt as a hot sensation or burning sensation from the stomach to the throat. Difficulty swallowing, vomiting, coughing, and trouble sleeping can also be associated with GERD.

GERD can be caused by a combination of factors. Important risk factors are obesity, pregnancy, smoking, use of certain drugs (such as aspirin and some antidepressants), and certain foods and drinks that weaken the lower esophageal sphincter.

Treatment for GERD includes lifestyle changes such as weight loss, avoidance of certain foods and drinks, and avoidance of bending over while eating. Medications may also be used to reduce excess stomach acid and protect the lining of the esophagus. In some cases, surgery may be required.

Fences:

If the main disorders are evident during the first hour of pickling, it is necessary to take care of the inoculation of such products, as they can exacerbate symptoms and cause teasing of the stravochid tract.

1. Hospitality, fatty, licorice and gaseous products: Liver speech, or more easily acquired, and may get caught in the sack, which can lead to increased discomfort and importance.

2. Caffeine and alcohol: Speech can tease the lining of the tube and cause burning. Also, the stench changes the activity of the slunk m’yazіv and can provokuvat їzhi їzhi in the slunk.

3. Spices and spices: The use of hot spices and spices can lead to teasing of the mucous membrane of the stravochid tract and an increase in the secretion of shell juice, which can provoke a virazok.

4. Dairy products: Some people may have individual lactose intolerance, which can lead to disorders of the intestinal tract, such as abdominal pain, flatulence and diarrhea.

5. Tyutyun: Chicken to damage the mucosal lining and lead to a change in blood supply to the walls, which can be added to the normal function of the ductal tract and cause disruption for an hour of etching.

It is important to pay attention to your eating habits and follow the doctor’s recommendations, so that you can avoid the worsening symptoms and the deterioration of the intestinal tract.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What are the main symptoms of digestive disorders?

The main symptoms of indigestion may be: abdominal pain or discomfort, heartburn, belching, grinding or foul-smelling feces, constipation or diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, increased or decreased appetite, abdominal swelling, frequent burping or heartburn after eating.

What are the causes of digestive disorders?

The causes of digestive disorders can be varied. These can be food intolerances, malnutrition, stress, irregular meals, too fast digestion, obesity, hormonal changes, infections or inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, alcohol or nicotine use, certain medications.

How are digestive disorders treated?

Treatment of digestive disorders depends on their cause. In some cases, it is enough to change the diet and exclude the consumption of certain foods. In other cases, medications may be needed to improve digestion or reduce symptoms of the disorder. In severe cases, surgery may be needed.

Functional disorders of the stomach. What is Functional Indigestion?

IMPORTANT
The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.

Functional disorders of the stomach are a number of pathologies that are associated with impaired motility and secretory function of the stomach without significant changes in the structure of the mucous membrane. Manifested by symptoms of dyspepsia (nausea, loss of appetite, periodic vomiting) and pain. To make a diagnosis, the following studies are carried out: fractional gastric sounding, esophagogastroscopy, electrogastrography, radiography of the stomach, ultrasound of the abdominal organs. Treatment is conservative, including drug therapy, diet therapy, proper diet.

• Causes of functional stomach disorders
  • Classification of functional disorders of the stomach
• Symptoms of functional disorders of the stomach
• Diagnostics of functional disorders of the stomach
• Treatment of functional stomach disorders
  • Prognosis for functional indigestion
• Prices for treatment

General

Functional disorders of the stomach are diseases in which the functioning of an organ (secretion, motility) suffers, but pathological changes do not affect its structure. In the future, both the disappearance of symptoms and a complete cure are possible, as well as the transition of disorders to a more serious organic pathology. Mostly young people are affected, men are twice as likely as women. According to various estimates, functional disorders of the stomach account for from 1. 5% to 58.8% of all gastroduodenal pathology. Such different assessments are due to the fact that when making a diagnosis, different approaches are used and adequate additional studies are not always carried out. If functional indigestion is suspected, a gastroenterologist or general practitioner should be consulted.

Functional stomach disorders

Causes of functional stomach disorders

Functional disorders of the stomach can be of primary or secondary origin. Factors that cause the occurrence of primary disorders include irregular meals, dry food, and the abuse of fried or spicy foods. Violations can develop due to alcoholism, smoking, physical overstrain, work in hot shops, bacterial infections and helminthic infestations, stress. Secondary disorders include conditions that have arisen against the background of chronic diseases of various organs of the digestive system, vegetative-vascular dystonia, diseases of the kidneys, heart and blood vessels, spine, foci of chronic inflammation or infection.

Irregular meals lead to a violation of the cyclical secretion of gastric juice, an excess of gastrointestinal hormones. Some dishes (fried, with a lot of hot spices) can irritate the gastric mucosa, and smoking, especially on an empty stomach, provokes the release of gastrin, which stimulates the production of digestive juices in the stomach. Stress and nervous disorders lead to disruption of neuroendocrine regulation. With secondary functional disorders, the strengthening of the influence of the vagus nerve (parasympathetic system), which stimulates motility and secretion, comes first.

In most cases, with functional disorders of the stomach, motility suffers, the evacuation of solid contents into the lower gastrointestinal tract is disturbed. Pain is associated with arrhythmic strong contractions of the walls, sometimes reverse peristalsis is observed. Often, not only the motility of the stomach is disturbed, but also the motor function of the duodenum, weakness of the sphincters occurs. The secretion in the stomach increases, which causes heartburn and pain in the upper abdomen.

Classification of functional disorders of the stomach

Taking into account the causes of the pathology, functional disorders of the stomach are divided into primary and secondary. In addition, the following types of organ dysfunction are distinguished: hypersthenic, hyposthenic, normosthenic, asthenic. According to clinical signs, the following forms are distinguished: pain, dyspeptic, mixed.

There are also several special forms of functional gastric disorders, such as acute gastric dilatation, aerophagia, and habitual vomiting. When formulating a diagnosis, the type and form of the disease must be indicated.

Symptoms of functional stomach disorders

Most of the symptoms of functional indigestion are clearly related to specific causes of the disease. Pain appears after errors in the diet, stressful situations. Localized pain in the epigastrium or around the navel. They are aching in nature, sometimes they can turn into acute intense pain. Also, patients complain of nausea, heaviness in the stomach after eating, heartburn. Aerophagia is characterized by belching rotten. Sudden, recurring vomiting is characteristic of habitual vomiting syndrome.

A specific feature of the symptoms in functional disorders of the stomach is its subjectivity and inconstancy. Complaints of patients are often contradictory, not very specific, with emotional overtones. Characteristic is their behavior and appearance. Patients have an asthenic physique, they are emotionally labile. Most of them do not eat well, work or study a lot, and have various personality problems.

During a general examination, signs of vegetative-vascular dystonia are often revealed – pallor of the skin, cold extremities, rapid or labile pulse, excessive sweating. On palpation, a slight soreness is found in the upper abdomen or around the navel. An important criterion for diagnosis is the short duration of complaints. The disease should not last more than a year or a year and a half. Otherwise, a more serious pathology should be suspected.

Diagnostics of functional disorders of the stomach

To study the characteristics of gastric secretion, fractional gastric sounding is performed. The method allows you to determine the volume of gastric juice, its acidity, the amount of free hydrochloric acid. Probing is carried out on an empty stomach (basal secretion study) and after stimulation with histamine or pentagastrin (stimulated secretion). A more modern method for studying secretory function is intragastric pH-metry. It allows you to evaluate the properties of gastric juice and the features of its secretion directly inside the stomach.

Esophagogastroscopy helps to identify motor changes in the activity of the stomach, such as cardia insufficiency, spasm or insufficiency of sphincters, increased peristalsis. The appearance and structure of the mucous membrane in functional disorders of the stomach are not changed, rarely reveal signs of inflammation. This technique allows for differential diagnosis with pathologies such as chronic gastritis, erosions and ulcers, stomach cancer.

Electrogastrography (EGG) is performed using a special device – an electrogastrograph. It allows you to study the bioelectric activity of the gastric wall. Using this technique, the type of functional indigestion is determined (hypersthenic, atonic, normotonic). To study motility, radiography of the stomach with barium contrast is also used, which allows you to assess the rate of evacuation of the contents, the state of the sphincters, the tone of the walls, and the volume of the organ.

Treatment of functional stomach disorders

Therapy depends on the cause and degree of functional disorders of the stomach. It is recommended to change the mode and quality of food. Food should be taken 3-4 times a day, at least once a day there are hot liquid dishes. You should limit foods that can irritate the mucous membrane (too spicy seasonings, pickled and fatty foods, smoked meats of all kinds). Very often, nutritional correction leads to a significant reduction or complete disappearance of symptoms, and drug treatment is not required.

If the patient has neurovegetative disorders, anticholinergics of non-selective sedative action are prescribed to him. Nervous system disorders can be corrected with sedative herbal remedies, minor tranquilizers such as diazepam, oxazepam. In more severe cases, antidepressants are prescribed.

Antispasmodics (drotaverine, papaverine) are prescribed for the treatment of motor function disorders and pain relief. Anticholinergics and selective cholinomimetics give a good effect, sometimes patients are recommended to take nitrates. With the syndrome of habitual vomiting, metoclopramide, domperidone are prescribed. Secretory disorders are corrected with the help of selective anticholinergics (pirenzepine, telenzepine), antacids.

Prognosis for functional disorders of the stomach

With functional disorders of the stomach, the prognosis is quite favorable. The main requirement is to correctly diagnose and start treatment on time. It is very important for the patient to change the type of food, get more rest and not overload the nervous system. If the disease arose at a young or adolescence, it may disappear on its own in a year or two, when the neurovegetative system begins to work more stably, and violations associated with age-related changes are eliminated.

Under adverse circumstances, functional disorders of the stomach turn into more serious diseases – stomach ulcers, chronic gastritis. This happens in the absence of treatment, regular diet violations, stress. Sometimes the transition of functional disorders to organic ones is associated with infection or activation of Helicobacter pylori.