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Indigestion
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Overview

Indigestion is often a sign of an underlying problem, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (Gerd), ulcers or gallbladder disease, rather than a condition of its own.
Also called dyspepsia, it is defined as a persistent or recurrent pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen.
Indigestion leaves a bitter or sour taste in the mouth.

Symptoms

• Burning in the stomach or upper abdomen
Abdominal Pain
Bloating (full feeling)
• Belching and gas
Nausea and Vomiting
• Acidic taste
• Growling stomach
These symptoms may increase in times of stress.
People often have heartburn (a burning sensation deep in the chest) along with indigestion. But heartburn itself is a different symptom that may indicate another problem.

Causes

Diseases:
• Ulcers
Gerd
• Stomach Cancer (rare)
• Gastroparesis (a condition where the stomach doesn't empty properly; this often occurs in diabetics)
• Stomach infections
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Thyroid disease
• Pregnancy
Medications:
• Aspirin and many other painkillers
Estrogen and oral contraceptives
• Steroid medications
• Certain antibiotics
• Thyroid medicines
Lifestyle:
• Eating too much, eating too fast, eating high-fat foods or eating during stressful situations
• Drinking too much alcohol
• Cigarette smoking
• Stress and fatigue

Indigestion is not caused by excess stomach Acid.
Swallowing excessive air when eating may increase the symptoms of belching and Bloating, which are often associated with indigestion.

Sometimes people have persistent indigestion that is not related to any of these factors. This type of indigestion is called functional, or non-ulcer dyspepsia.

Treatment

Every 3 to 4 hours drink water with 2 to 3 drops of mint essence in it. To prevent Acid indigestion put some lemon juice or cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink it before the meal.

Massage your stomach with a mixture of 2 to 3 drops of garlic oil and half a cup of Soya oil.

Ginger tea after meal promotes digestion.

Herbal tea prepared using blackberry, raspberry, mint and camomile is effective for indigestion.

Take one glass of Honey and lemon juice, both mixed in equal quantity.

For instant relief add some baking soda to one glass of water and drink it.

Diet

Avoid large meals, take small and frequent meals. Increase water intake and drink herbal tea. Abstain from smoking and alcoholic beverages. Avoid tea, coffee and other drinks that contain caffeine. Avoid hot spicy and fatty foods. Restrict intake of chocolates.