Severe Indigestion

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. Sometimes, making a few changes in diet and lifestyle may help treat the problem. However, in some cases, medical intervention may be a necessity.

Indigestion treatment mainly deals with addressing the underlying cause of the condition. Apart from following what the doctor recommends, here are some simple self care measures which may help 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.

☞ As already mentioned, spicy foods, caffeine, etc, act as triggers for indigestion. So, avoid them as much as possible. Also, shun smoking and drinking alcohol and you will notice major improvements in your condition.

☞ One of the most promising remedies to manage indigestion 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. 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 indigestion. So, in such cases, reconsider your medications and follow a course which has been prescribed by the doctor.

Here are some quick and easy home remedies to deal with 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

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.

Indigestion, usually does not lead to any severe health complications. However, it may greatly affect the patient's lifestyle. 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, then there is no denial to the fact that it might have complications of its own. So an early diagnosis and prompt treatment are required.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this story is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.