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Digestive system
Overview Treatment
Indigestion
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. Text Continues Below 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: Your symptoms last longer than a few days The pattern of indigestion symptoms changes noticeably You have sudden, severe abdominal pain You have unexplained weight loss You vomit blood or pass blood in the stool You have jaundice (yellow coloring of the skin and eyes) Symptoms include jaw pain, chest pain, back pain, profuse sweating, anxiety, or a feeling of impending doom (possible heart attack symptoms) What to expect at your health care provider's office: Your doctor will perform a physical examination, emphasizing the abdominal region and digestive system, and ask questions related to your indigestion like: Does it begin or get worse after eating particular foods? Does it begin or get worse after alcoholic or carbonated drinks? Do you eat fast? Have you been overeating? Have you changed your diet? Have you had any spicy foods, high-fiber foods, or fatty foods? Have you had a lot of caffeine? What medications are you taking? Have you changed medications recently? What other symptoms do you have? Do you have abdominal pain? Do you have vomiting? Page:  1 | 2 | Next >>