DIAGNOSIS
Your doctor will start by asking questions about your medical history and eating habits. You will undergo a physical examination, and your doctor may order X-ray images of your abdomen to see if there are any abnormalities in your digestive tract. Your doctor may also collect samples of your blood, breath, and stool to check for a type of bacteria that causes peptic ulcers.
An endoscopic examination of the upper digestive tract can also be used to check for abnormalities. An upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy can diagnose GERD, ulcers, infection, and cancer.
RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS
Several medications can treat indigestion, although you may experience side effects. Over-the-counter antacids like Maalox and Mylanta help neutralize stomach acid, but may cause diarrhea or constipation.
H2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs), such as Zantac and Pepcid, work to reduce stomach acid. Side effects of these medications include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rash or itching
- Constipation
- Headache
- Bleeding or bruising
- Prokinetics, such as the prescription medications Reglan and Motilium, improve the muscle action (motility) of the digestive tract. These medications may cause depression, anxiety, involuntary movements or spasms, and fatigue.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like Prilosec also reduce stomach acid, but are typically stronger than H2RAs. Side effects of these medications include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Cough
- Headache
- Backache
- Dizziness
- Abdominal pain
- Both PPIs and H2 drugs are typically used to treat peptic ulcers. If the bacteria H. pylori are the cause of ulcers, these drugs are used in combination with antibiotics, such as clarithromycin and amoxicillin.
Lifestyle Changes and Home Care
Medication isn’t the only treatment option for indigestion. You may be able to improve digestion and relieve uncomfortable symptoms with simple lifestyle adjustments. For example:
- Eat smaller meals throughout the day.
- Avoid spicy, fatty foods that can trigger heartburn.
- Eat more slowly and don’t eat before lying down.
- Stop smoking.
- Lose excess body weight.
- Reduce the amount of coffee, soft drinks, and alcohol you consume.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Stop taking medicines that irritate the stomach lining, such as NSAIDs and aspirin.
- Reduce stress through yoga or relaxation therapy.
