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ENCYCLOPEDIA INDEX
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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W Y

Indigestion

Overview Treatment
Alternative Names:
Dyspepsia; Uncomfortable fullness after meals
Home Care:
Allow time for leisurely meals. Chew food carefully and thoroughly. Avoid conflicts during meals. Avoid excitement or exercise immediately after a meal. Avoid chewing gum -- it may cause air swallowing. A calm environment and rest may help relieve stress-related dyspepsia.

Avoid aspirin and NSAIDs (use acetaminophen instead). If you must take them, do so on a full stomach. Antacids may relieve indigestion. Stronger medications are available over-the-counter, such as ranitidine (Zantac). Your doctor may prescribe similar medications, or more potent ones such as omeprazole (Prilosec).
Call your health care provider if:
What to expect at your health care provider's office:
The medical history will be obtained, and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting indigestion in detail may include:
  • Aggravating factors
    • Does it begin (or is it worse) after eating particular foods?
    • Does it begin (or is it worse) after drinking wine or other alcoholic drinks or carbonated drinks?
  • Eating habits
    • Do you eat fast?
    • Have you been overeating?
    • Have you changed your diet? Particularly, have you had any spicy foods, high-fiber foods, or fatty foods? Have you increased your intake of caffeine?
  • Medications
    • What medications are you taking?
    • Have you changed medications recently?
  • Other symptoms
The physical examination will probably include emphasis on the abdominal region and digestive system.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to indigestion to your personal medical record.
Digestive system
Digestive system
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