Indigestion is characterized by more or less intense pain and heartburn. This condition is common and can affect anyone.

Indigestion is a general term used in the context of pain and discomfort in the stomach.

The characteristic symptoms are heartburn, the consequence of acid reflux, from the stomach to the esophagus. Indigestion can be collective (resulting from a food infection for example) or individual.

It is a common condition and can affect any individual. Most of the time, indigestion is not serious and only lasts a short time.

Indigestion is usually associated with a food problem. This is because when we eat, the stomach produces acid. This acid can sometimes irritate the stomach. Irritation of the stomach then causes pain and burning sensations.

Other factors can cause indigestion:

• taking certain medications: nitrates for example, used as a vasodilator. But also nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
• obesity. Indeed, such a condition causes pressure in the stomach and therefore an increased risk of acid reflux.
• pregnancy and hormonal changes.
• the consumption of tobacco and / or alcohol, causing increased production of acid in the stomach.
• stress and anxiety
• hiatus hernia (passage of part of the stomach into the esophagus).
• infection with H. pylori, an infectious bacteria of the digestive tract.
• gastroesophageal reflux disease.
• a gastric (stomach) ulcer, which is a loss of part of the tissue covering the stomach.
• stomach cancer.

The main symptoms of indigestion are: pain and heartburn.

Other clinical signs may be significant of indigestion:

• a feeling of being heavy and bloated
• not feeling well for a short time
• undergo a rise in food after a meal.

These symptoms usually appear after eating a meal. However, a delay between taking a meal and the appearance of such clinical signs is also possible.

The diagnosis is previously clinical. When the doctor suspects indigestion, other additional examinations must be performed: an antigenic stool test, a respiratory test or a blood test. And this in order to determine the possible presence of an infectious agent.

Treatment for indigestion varies depending on the cause of the symptoms. Most patients with indigestion are able to alleviate their symptoms by simply changing their diet and other bad lifestyle habits (smoking, alcoholism, sedentary lifestyle, etc.).

Prescribing antacids also helps alleviate symptoms associated with indigestion.

Losing weight, practicing regular physical exercises or eating a healthy and balanced diet can limit the risk of indigestion.

The avoidance of spicy foods, very fatty, coffee, tea, soda, cigarettes or alcohol, is also recommended.