Indigestion, also referred to as dyspepsia, is that uncomfortable sensation many people experience after eating too much or eating certain types of foods. Most cases of indigestion during or after exercise are mild. However, if indigestion is accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain or sweating, these symptoms indicate a medical emergency. Most cases of indigestion are preventable with lifestyle changes and treatable with medical care.
Features
In most cases, feelings of indigestion are mild and last for a short time. Symptoms of indigestion often include bloating; belching; nausea; a feeling of pain, burning, pressure or fullness in the upper abdomen; and feeling full early in a meal before eating a full serving of food. You might get indigestion rarely during or after exercise, or as often as daily or with each workout. Feelings of indigestion might come on gradually during or after a workout or suddenly and without warning.
Causes
According to MayoClinic.com, most cases of indigestion during or after exercise result from personal behaviors. These include eating too much or too quickly, consuming foods or drinks that are spicy, fatty, greasy, caffeinated, alcoholic or carbonated. Emotional concerns such as nervousness, anxiety and worry can also cause indigestion. Drugs, including ibuprofen, nicotine, antibiotics and aspirin, can also cause indigestion during or after exercise. Less commonly, serious medical conditions including gallstones, pancreatitis, gastritis, ulcers or stomach cancer can cause indigestion during or after exercise. Indigestion during or after exercise accompanied by dizziness, difficulty breathing, sweating or jaw or chest pain could indicate a heart attack, which requires immediate emergency medical care.
Treatments
Dietary changes as recommended by a dietitian or physician can help treat indigestion during or after exercise that results from eating or drinking trigger foods or beverages. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians website, doctors treat indigestion that results from stomach ulcers with antacids and antibiotics. Doctors might also prescribe antidepressants to decrease pain or help treat emotional concerns that cause indigestion. Serious conditions such as pancreatitis or heart attack require emergency surgical treatment.
Prevention
Avoiding exercising right after eating a meal can help prevent indigestion, the National Library of Medicine says. In addition, avoiding any excitement or stress after a meal can also help prevent indigestion. Eating slowly and eating smaller amounts more frequently can also help prevent indigestion. Regular exercise can improve the digestive process, MayoClinic.com says, and those who suffer from indigestion should aim to exercise 30 to 60 minutes daily on most days of each week.
