Indigestion Aid

Heartburn is a common problem, especially during pregnancy. It is a feeling of burning in the middle of the chest, and is caused by the acid that leaks upwards into esophagus from stomach. Indigestion is similar discomfort due to burning sensation, but is in the pit of the stomach. It is usually caused by acid that irritates the lining of the stomach, or duodenum. It happens due to less protection from mucus that lines the stomach, and it can burn so deeply in the stomach that a crater is formed, known as peptic ulcer.

Causes Of Heartburn And Indigestion

Many people feel that they are suffering from heartburn, but they might actually be suffering from indigestion. Triggers for both the disorders are similar, but the treatments can vary in many instances, as heartburn is not same as indigestion.

Some of the causes of heartburn and indigestion are overeating, eating spicy food, eating too fast, smoking, alcohol consumption, inflammation of pancreas, inflammation of stomach, duodenal ulcer, antibiotics, aspirin, gastric ulcer, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Moderate exercise is usually helpful, but running, squatting and bending can worsen the causes of heartburn and indigestion.

It is easy to deal with the causes of heartburn and indigestion by reducing stress, chewing slowly, and reducing anxiety. It is however impossible to avoid all the causes of heartburn and indigestion, but it is possible to eat smaller meals, quit smoking and drinking, and getting regular exercise. If suffering from heartburn and indigestion for more than twice or thrice a week, it is advisable to have the symptoms evaluated by the physician.

It is usually considered that highly acidic foods are main causes of heartburn and indigestion, and most of the people usually try to avoid these foods. It is however helpful to maintain the diary for few weeks, and note down the foods that are followed by the heartburn.

There are various prescription and non-prescription medicines available to treat the heartburn and indigestion. Antacids can help relieve symptoms of indigestion and heartburn by neutralizing acids in the stomach, as they contain aluminium or magnesium. If antacids are not helpful, pharmacist may prescribe H2 blocker, which reduces the amount of acid produced by the stomach.

Indigestion and heartburn are not dangerous, but are annoying, and can cause discomfort. Heartburn indigestion during pregnancy must be treated carefully so that the unborn child is not affected adversely. Luckily, most of the pregnant women get good relief with proper treatment and small change in eating habits.