Severe Indigestion

When termed clinically, indigestion is also known as dyspepsia or even upset stomach. Indigestion is common among people of all ages and it brings about a bout of symptoms, which can be very discomforting. Causes of indigestion encompasses various factors, which are related to simple eating and drinking habits and other medical conditions, as well. Eating too much and too fast can cause indigestion. Fatty, greasy, or spicy foods are also some of the causes. Taking too much of caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, carbonated beverage and using medications like antibiotics, aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can easily give rise to severe indigestion. People who are in the habit of excessive smoking or those who suffer from gastritis, pancreatitis, peptic ulcers, gallstones and stomach cancer are the ones who are prone to suffer from severe cases of indigestion. At times, even nervousness may become the reason of mild indigestion.

Severe Indigestion Symptoms

One common symptom of severe indigestion is a severe pain that seems to develop in the area that lies in between the sternum (the flat bone that articulates with the clavicles and the first seven pairs of ribs) and the navel. Apart from the severe pain, there might be a burning sensation that radiates in the same area. People suffering from this problem feel fuller after even after a small meal, and for a longer time. Nausea, vomiting, bloating, acidic taste in the mouth, belching, growling stomach and abdominal pain are the other symptoms which might be indicative of this disorder. There might be other symptoms which are severe by nature and must be brought into a doctor's attention. They include weight loss, poor appetite, black stools, jaundice, shortness of breath, chest pain and stress.

Severe Indigestion Treatment

# Indigestion treatment mainly deals with addressing the underlying cause of the condition. Apart from taking medications, there are some simple measures which can be taken up in order to treat the problem. It is advisable and in fact, a good practice, not to talk or open your mouth while you are eating. Eat slowly and ensure that every bit of the food is chewed properly. Avoid drinking water or fluids during meals. You can take them after you are done with eating. Give yourself some time after taking your meal. This will ensure proper digestion and reduce the symptoms of severe indigestion.

# As already mentioned, spicy foods, caffeine, etc, act as triggers for severe indigestion. So, avoid them as much as possible. Shun smoking and drinking alcohol and you will notice major improvements in your condition. One of the most promising severe indigestion remedies is a regular exercise schedule. A mere 30 - 60 minutes of light physical activity helps in keeping a check on the weight thus, promoting better digestion. However, any physical activity, right after meals, must be avoided.

# Go for meditation, yoga and other programs, which can help you manage stress and provide calmness and peace of mind. Such relaxation techniques calm you senses and improve the function of the bodily organs. Drinking herbal tea also does good in treating this condition. It is also important to keep a check on your medications with the help of your doctor. As aforesaid, some medicines may cause or aggravate the symptoms of severe indigestion. So, in such cases, reconsider your medications and follow a course which has been prescribed by the doctor.

# In most cases, indigestion when goes to a severe level, requires the aid of medications. Common types of drugs that are prescribed include antacids, H-2-receptor antagonists, proton pump inhibitors, antibiotics, and sometimes antidepressants too.

Here are some quick and easy to make home remedies for severe indigestion:

• Pineapple juice after meal
• Mix of lemon juice, ginger and honey in lukewarm water
• Orange juice or grape juice
• Mix of baking soda and water
• Mix of cumin seeds in a glass of water
• Juice of coriander leaf, mixed with a pinch of salt
• Mix of rock salt and carom seeds
• Fresh ginger root taken 5 - 10 minutes before meals
• Ginger tea or peppermint

Indigestion, usually does not lead to any severe health complications. However, it may greatly affect the patient's lifestyle with its uncomfortable symptoms. The condition, when left untreated may also cause eating disorders, which may be deteriorating for health. Also, if there is any underlying medical condition that is causing the indigestion, there is no denial to the fact that it might have complications of its own. So an early diagnosis and prompt treatment are required.