Dyspepsia is the medical term for nausea and indigestion after eating. Dyspepsia affects many people from one to several times per day, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Unlike other digestive conditions and diseases, mild dyspepsia does not cause permanent damage to your gastrointestinal system.
Causes
Dyspepsia occurs as a result of the specific types of food and drinks. Eating too quickly or eating too much are common causes of dyspepsia. You may also experience nausea and indigestion after eating as a result of consuming fried foods, spicy foods, excess caffeine and too much alcohol. Smoking and nervousness can cause dyspepsia as well.
In some cases, an underlying medical condition, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, gallstones, peptic ulcers or cancer, may be the cause of dyspepsia. If an underlying cause cannot be found, you may have functional dyspepsia. This type of dyspepsia occurs when the stomach muscles do not contract properly.
Symptoms
Most people with dyspepsia experience early fullness while eating, uncomfortable fullness following a meal, mild to severe pain in the upper abdomen and a burning sensation between the breastbone and navel, according to MayoClinic.com. Less common symptoms include nausea and abdominal bloating. Heartburn often accompanies the symptoms of dyspepsia, but heartburn and dyspepsia are two independent conditions.
Lifestyle Changes
If you get dyspepsia after eating, you may be able to control your symptoms through lifestyle changes. Eat smaller meals more frequently, and chew your food adequately to help reduce the symptoms of indigestion. Avoid foods that trigger symptoms, such as greasy or spicy foods. Losing weight, exercising regularly and engaging in stress reduction activities can also help reduce your symptoms.
Medications
If lifestyle changes are not enough to reduce your symptoms, or indigestion is caused by an underlying medical condition, you may need medication. Antacids are prescribed most often for indigestion, and they work by neutralizing your stomach acid. Other dyspepsia medications include proton pump inhibitors and H-2-receptor antagonists, which also help reduce stomach acid. Prokinetics may be prescribed for those with functional dyspepsia. This class of medication helps control the action of your stomach muscles. These medications may help reduce the symptoms of indigestion, and you should also consult your doctor about specific treatment for any underlying medical conditions.
