Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
How indigestion is treated: lifestyle, simple medicines, testing for H. pylori and treating the cause.
Most indigestion improves with the right habits and, when needed, medicines. Treatment depends on the cause.
Step 1: lifestyle and diet
Step 2: simple medicines
Antacids or alginates for occasional symptoms. If symptoms continue for more than a couple of weeks, see a doctor.
Step 3: test and treat
Step 4: treat the cause
Ulcers, reflux disease, gallstones and other conditions are treated specifically.
Functional dyspepsia
It is a long-term condition that can be controlled but may recur. Treatment focuses on trigger control, stress, acid reduction and, sometimes, medicines that act on gut nerves.
Ayurveda, yoga and relaxation may support comfort. They are adjuncts and do not replace a medical check for persistent symptoms.
Seek urgent care for
Black stools, vomiting blood, severe pain, difficulty swallowing, or chest pain with sweating or breathlessness. Call 112 or 102.
Key point
Find and treat the cause, and use medicines for the shortest time that works.
Before your appointment
Note when symptoms started, how they relate to meals, and what makes them better or worse. List all medicines, especially painkillers, and any herbal products. Mention weight loss, vomiting, black stools, trouble swallowing, family history of stomach problems, smoking and alcohol. Ask about tests such as an H. pylori test or endoscopy, and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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