Spicy, fatty or greasy foods often trigger indigestion. [3] X Research source Foods that contain a lot of acid, like citrus and tomatoes, may contribute to indigestion. [4] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source If you notice a pattern of foods causing you discomfort, discontinue or limit your consumption of these dishes. You can also download an app to your smartphone to make tracking your diet a little easier.
Chew food slowly and completely before swallowing. Try not to chew with your mouth open and talk before swallowing. Avoid swallowing air. This can happen when you gulp a beverage or talk a lot while eating. Allow enough time to eat your meal. Avoid exercising right after eating. Avoid drinking with your meals. Drink 20 minutes before or after meals. It is probably okay to sip room temperature water during meals.
Smoking can also lead to irritation of the lining of the stomach causing abdominal pain. Carbonated beverages can cause irritation of the lining of the stomach causing abdominal pain. [7] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Discuss your symptoms with a doctor to see what other modifications may help. [8] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Whenever possible, wait at least three hours after eating before going to bed. Do not recline on the couch or in a chair immediately after eating. Place blocks under the bed legs at the head of the bed to elevate your head and shoulders. You can also use a few pillows or a foam wedge if you cannot elevate your bed. [10] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
Try to avoid arguments or contention during meals. Get enough sleep at night. Try activities such as yoga, meditation, and regular exercise. [12] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Engage in relaxing activities that will reduce your overall stress.
Most antacids can be purchased over the counter, but may cause different side effects. Take an antacid about an hour after eating, or whenever your heartburn usually occurs. Do not take antacids for a prolonged period of time, as they may cause vitamin B12 deficiency. This is especially true for medications called “proton pump inhibitors,” such as Prilosec and Prevacid. [14] X Research source If your indigestion continues for more than two weeks, see your doctor. Be aware that there is some evidence that decreasing stomach acid may actually worsen symptoms for some people. It also may be a factor in stomach and small bowel bacterial overgrowth — these studies are ongoing. If you experience a worsening of symptoms after taking an antacid, stop taking them and talk to your doctor.
Burning behind the breastbone or in the throat. Bitter and sour taste of acid in the back of the throat.
When possible, avoid these products or discuss with your doctor how to cope with side effects. Take medications on a full stomach to reduce side effects. [17] X Research source Other medications that may cause indigestion include: steroids (e. g. , prednisone), antibiotics (e. g. , tetracycline, erythromycin), thyroid medications, blood pressure medications, cholesterol medications (statin), and codeine. [18] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Celiac disease Peptic ulcers Stomach cancer Gallstones Small bowel bacterial overgrowth
Indigestion that persists for more than two weeks and does not respond to home remedies. Significant weight loss. Nausea or repeated vomiting. Stool is dark, bloody, or the consistency of tar. Symptoms of anemia, such as ongoing fatigue or physical weakness. Chronic use of antacids for indigestion.
Your doctor can also test your blood for celiac disease, an inflammatory condition that can cause symptoms such as indigestion. [22] X Trustworthy Source National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Health information from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, a division of the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Your blood can also be tested for anemia, a sign that you may have Crohn’s disease, an inflammatory bowel disease that causes severe digestive symptoms including indigestion. [23] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
A stool test can also reveal intestinal dysbiosis, an imbalance of bacteria in your digestive system that can cause issues such as indigestion. This can occur if you take antibiotics and do not get your gut flora back to proper levels. [26] X Research source Your doctor may test your stool for Giardia lamblia, a common parasitic infection that causes indigestion. If Giardia lamblia is present, your doctor may prescribe a course of metronidazole (Flagyl) or Tinidazole. [27] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Many alternative treatments are not proven clinically and could cause negative interactions with prescription medications or existing medical conditions. Always ask your doctor before starting any home remedy to avoid any medical complications.
You can make a chamomile tea by steeping two to three teaspoons of dried chamomile in one cup of boiling water. Strain the tea after it has steeped for 10 minutes. You can drink this tea up to three to four times per day between meals. People with ragweed or daisy allergies may have an allergic reaction to chamomile. Chamomile may also function like estrogen in the body, so women who have a history of hormone-sensitive cancers should use it with caution. Talk to your doctor before using chamomile.
Artichoke leaf extract could cause gas or allergic reactions in some people. People who have allergies to marigolds, daisies, or ragweed are more likely to experience an allergic reaction.
Ask your doctor about relaxation techniques. Practice progressive muscle relaxation. Guided imagery may help you as well.
