Constant Indigestion

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is basically a symptom of certain problems associated with the digestive system. Indigestion is usually accompanied by the symptoms like, bloating or an uncomfortable sensation of abdominal fullness, gas, nausea and vomiting, belching, abdominal pain or cramp and heartburn. Experiencing these symptoms once in a while is quite normal, especially after overeating or eating something that is not easily digestible. But, constant indigestion or chronic dyspepsia can be an indicator that something is wrong with the digestive system.

Chronic Dyspepsia Causes

A number of factors can be responsible for causing this condition. Many people usually get this condition after eating. One of the most important factor for indigestion can be a diet, poor in fiber. Fiber is very important for the digestive health and hence, its deficiency can manifest in indigestion. Again, many people are allergic to certain foods like wheat, soy or milk, and consuming such foods too can give rise to many digestive issues.

Eating fatty and spicy foods can be another reason behind indigestion and gas. Therefore, it is very important to identify what kinds of food one cannot tolerate, in order to alleviate digestive issues. Apart from an improper diet, factors like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, too much of caffeine and certain medications like, anti-inflammatory drugs can also take a toll on our digestive system. An overgrowth of candida on the other hand, can destroy the beneficial bacteria, which assist digestion of foods and lead to this condition.

In addition to these, some other possible causes of indigestion are, Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), stress, eating food too quickly, gastritis, stomach flu, stomach ulcer, excess stomach acid, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatic disease and gallstones. Rarely, it can also be an indicator of cancer. However, at times, persistent indigestion or dyspepsia may not be associated with any of the above mentioned factors and diseases. This type of dyspepsia is known as functional or non-ulcer dyspepsia. This condition is caused by a problem in the motility of upper gastrointestinal tract.

Diagnosis and Treatment for Chronic Dyspepsia

The diagnosis begins with physical examination of the patients, followed by certain other tests like X-ray of the stomach and intestine, rectal examination, endoscopy and barium studies. These diagnostic tests are conducted to rule out ulcers, bleeding and certain other conditions. The treatment for chronic indigestion depends on the underlying causes. Generally, lifestyle and dietary modifications are sufficient for resolving dyspepsia, if it is not associated with any major disease. Dietary modifications involve, avoidance of that particular foods which cause indigestion. Sometimes, your physicians may suggest only soft foods and liquid diet, until the symptoms of indigestion subside.

At times, medications can also be required to treat chronic dyspepsia. The medications that are more commonly employed for this purpose are, antacids, proton pump inhibitors, H-2 receptor antagonists and prokinetic agents. Sometimes, antidepressants are recommended in order to relieve the discomforts associated with indigestion. If the bacteria, Helicobacter pylori is found to be the causative agent of peptic ulcer and the resulting indigestion, then antibiotics can be suggested for indigestion treatment.

Usually, some precautions can help to manage indigestion and the symptoms associated with this condition. As for example, eating frequent small meals, having a high fiber diet, managing stress with relaxation techniques, regular exercising, drinking and avoiding the foods that cause indigestion are some simple measures that often help to alleviate this condition. Certain herbal remedies like, peppermint and caraway can also prove helpful for indigestion, if it is not related to stomach ulcers. However, it is better to get the condition properly evaluated by a physician to identify the actual causes of indigestion. Therefore, if indigestion is persistent in nature, then talk to your physician and follow his or her suggestions regarding its treatment.