Dyspepsia, also called indigestion, is a problem that most adults experience at least once in their lifetime. Upper abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, bloating, abdominal gas, feeling full after eating small amounts, and belching are all symptoms of dyspepsia. Indigestion is often related to consumption of too much food, especially heavy or greasy foods, eating late at night, smoking, alcohol consumption, or life stress. For some individuals, dyspepsia occurs regularly and becomes a health and quality-of –life issue.
Medical problems that have similar symptoms include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, stomach cancer, pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and even heart disease (angina or heart attack). Because symptoms similar to those of dyspepsia may indicate a serious medical condition, patients should see their doctors if they have indigestion on a regular basis. If they have bloody stools or vomit blood they should see the doctor immediately.
Because dyspepsia can be a symptom of an underlying medical problem, the doctor may prescribe tests to look for these other conditions such as barium swallow, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, or computed tomography (CT scan).
To prevent dyspepsia, patients should avoid triggering foods, factors that make indigestion worse such as eating large meals, especially heavy and greasy foods, eating late at night, eating quickly, or eating before exercise. They should also avoid smoking, alcohol, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly to reduce stress, and improve well-being.
Medications using to treat dyspepsia include antacids, proton pump inhibitors, histamine-2-receptor blockers, and motility drugs (to help the stomach empty). Other medications may be prescribed for individuals with other medical problems that influence the symptoms of indigestion.
