Dyspepsia

Dyspepsia, is another word for indigestion or upset stomach that refers to a group of symptoms related to the digestive system. Almost everyone has experienced indigestion. But for some people, it’s a daily occurrence that diminishes their quality of life.

Dyspepsia is characterized by discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen and often accompanied by bloating, belching, nausea, or a feeling of fullness. Dyspepsia is not a specific disease but rather a collection of symptoms that can be caused by various factors.

Causes of Dyspepsia:

1-     Eating too much or too fast. Overeating stretches your stomach and makes it more likely for acid to escape can contribute to dyspeptic symptoms.

2-     Too much caffeine, alcohol, chocolate or carbonated beverages, Cigarette smoking ,too much fat in your diet that triggers acid which irritates tissues and causes dyspepsia.

3-     Certain drugs, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, and some antibiotics, can irritate the stomach lining and cause dyspepsia.

4-     Certain diseases like peptic ulcer, GERD, Helicobactor pylori infection, lactose intolerance, Irritable bowel syndrome, Chronic pancreatitis, thyroid disease, gall bladder inflammations causes dyspepsia.

5-     Pregnancy leads to hormonal fluctuations, particularly an increase in progesterone. Progesterone can relax the muscles in the digestive tract, including the lower esophageal sphincter, which may result in stomach acid reflux and dyspeptic symptoms.

6-     Emotional factors can impact digestion and contribute to dyspepsia symptoms.

Symptoms of Dyspepsia:

1-     Burning, gnawing pain on upper part of abdomen or epigastric region is a typical symptom. The pain may be persisting or come and go.

2-     Feeling of fullness or easy satiety during and after eating is another common symptom of dyspepsia.

3-     Bloating-Feelings of fullness or uncomfortable pressure in your belly, even after eating small amount of food.

4-     A burning sensation or discomfort on chest or often rising upward on throat.

5-     Involuntary return of partially digested food or stomach content back into the mouth.

6-     Excessive belching or burping sometimes associated with foul or taste.

7-     Feeling of uneasiness or urge for vomiting.

 Management of Dyspepsia:

• Spicy foods, citrus fruits, fatty foods, chocolate, caffeine, and carbonated beverages are the main culprit of dyspepsia so try to find out the food items that triggers the symptoms and avoid it.

• Instead of taking three large meal ,take small meals in frequent interval it will reduce load on your digestive system and also prevent overeating that causes dyspepsia.

• chew food thoroughly and take your time to meal it can prevent the swallowing of air which contribute indigestion.

• Avoid late night eating, give at least gap of 2-3 hours between your last meal and bedtime so your body get enough time to digest food before lying down.

• Smoking contribute indigestion and various other digestion related issues so quit smoking improves the digestion and other health related issues.

• Avoid drinking large quantity of water during meal as it dilute the stomach acid and hinder digestion.

• Avoid lying down immediately after eating and maintain straight posture while sitting to avoid pressure on stomach.

• Maintain health weight as excess weight put pressure on the stomach, leading to indigestion. Regular physical activity, which can aid in digestion and help to maintain a healthy weight.

• Stress can stimulate the production of stomach acid, leading to an imbalance in the digestive system. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help manage stress, which can exacerbate indigestion.

• Adopt a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Fiber can promote regular bowel movements and aid in digestion. A diet low in fat can be beneficial, as fatty foods can delay stomach emptying and contribute to indigestion.

• Ensure you get enough quality sleep each night. Lack of sleep can contribute to stress and impact digestive health.

•  Eating in a relaxed environment can promote better digestion.

Homeopathic medicine for Dyspepsia:

Homeopathic treatments are highly individualized, and the selection of remedy depends on the unique characteristics of your symptoms. It is important to remember that seeking guidance from a qualified homeopathic practitioner is recommended .

Here are a few homeopathic remedies that are considered for dyspepsia.

Abies nigra,Antimonium crudum, Arsenic album, Argentum nitricum, Carboveg, ColocynChamomilla ,China, ferrum metallicum,Hydrastis can,Iris versicolor Ipecac,kali bich,Lycopodium, Nat carb, Nat phos, Nux vomica ,Ornithogalum, Pulsatilla, Pepsinum, Robinia, Sulphur etc.