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What to Do If You Have Heartburn or Indigestion
Heartburn and indigestion are common ailments that affect many people in the United Kingdom. These conditions can be uncomfortable, but there are several steps you can take to alleviate the symptoms and prevent them from recurring. Here’s what you need to know.
Identify Your Symptoms
Before taking any action, it's important to identify whether your discomfort is due to heartburn or indigestion. Heartburn is a burning pain in your chest, often after eating, while indigestion can include bloating, nausea, or an uncomfortable fullness. Recognising the symptoms can help you choose the best course of action.
Modify Your Diet
One of the most effective ways to manage heartburn and indigestion is by adjusting your diet. Avoid foods and drinks that can trigger symptoms, such as spicy foods, fatty foods, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages. Instead, opt for a balanced diet with smaller, more frequent meals to prevent overloading your digestive system.
Over-the-Counter Remedies
In the United Kingdom, many over-the-counter medications can help relieve heartburn and indigestion. Antacids, such as Gaviscon and Rennie, neutralise stomach acid and provide quick relief. H2 blockers, like ranitidine, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as omeprazole, reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces. Always follow the instructions on the packaging and consult a pharmacist if you have any questions.
Lifestyle Changes
Simple lifestyle changes can also significantly reduce the frequency and severity of heartburn and indigestion. Maintain a healthy weight, as excess weight can put pressure on your abdomen. Avoid lying down immediately after eating and try to eat at least three hours before bedtime. Elevating the head of your bed by about 15–20 cm can also help prevent nighttime symptoms.
When to Seek Medical Help
If your symptoms persist despite making these changes, or if you experience severe pain, difficulty swallowing, weight loss, or vomiting, it's crucial to seek medical advice. Chronic heartburn and indigestion can be signs of a more serious condition, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or a peptic ulcer, that requires professional treatment.
Conclusion
Managing heartburn and indigestion involves a combination of dietary adjustments, over-the-counter remedies, and lifestyle changes. By identifying triggers and making proactive changes, you can reduce discomfort and improve your quality of life. If symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is heartburn?
Heartburn is a burning sensation in your chest, just behind your breastbone. It's typically caused by acid reflux, which happens when stomach acid moves up into your esophagus.
What causes indigestion?
Indigestion can be caused by overeating, eating too quickly, fatty or greasy foods, stress, alcohol, caffeine, and certain medications.
How can I prevent heartburn and indigestion?
To prevent heartburn and indigestion, avoid trigger foods, eat smaller meals, don’t lie down after eating, elevate your head while sleeping, and manage stress.
Are over-the-counter medications effective?
Yes, over-the-counter medications like antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can be effective in relieving symptoms.
When should I see a doctor for heartburn?
You should see a doctor if you experience severe or frequent heartburn, have difficulty swallowing, or if over-the-counter medications do not provide relief.
Is heartburn the same as GERD?
Heartburn is a symptom of GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), but not everyone who suffers from heartburn has GERD.
Can stress cause indigestion?
Yes, stress can contribute to indigestion by increasing stomach acid production and slowing digestion.
Is it safe to use baking soda for heartburn relief?
Baking soda can provide temporary relief for heartburn by neutralizing stomach acid, but it should not be used frequently as it can cause side effects.
Can lifestyle changes help with indigestion?
Yes, lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising, avoiding tobacco, and reducing alcohol and caffeine can help manage indigestion.
What are common foods that trigger heartburn?
Common heartburn triggers include spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, garlic, onions, and fatty or fried foods.
Can drinking water help with heartburn?
Drinking water can help dilute stomach acid and provide temporary relief, but it is not a long-term solution for heartburn.
Is heartburn common during pregnancy?
Yes, heartburn is common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and pressure on the stomach from the growing uterus.
What role does weight play in heartburn and indigestion?
Excess weight can increase pressure on the stomach and lower esophageal sphincter, leading to increased risk of heartburn and indigestion.
Can certain medications cause indigestion?
Yes, medications such as NSAIDs, aspirin, certain antibiotics, and bisphosphonates can cause indigestion.
Is it harmful to ignore heartburn symptoms?
Ignoring heartburn can lead to complications such as esophagitis, esophageal ulcers, or Barrett’s esophagus, so it's important to address persistent symptoms.
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