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The PHARMACIST talks about …

Indigestion & Heartburn

Indigestion and heartburn are common problems that occur when the acidic contents of the stomach attack the lining of your stomach or oesophagus. Although often used interchangeably, indigestion and heartburn are slightly different complaints.

Indigestion is the discomfort you may feel in your stomach after a meal. This discomfort can be a feeling of nausea or a bloated feeling that is relieved by burping.

Heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the oesophagus and is often described as a burning sensation rising up through the chest. Symptoms are usually noticed to be worse when bending over or lying down.

It is not unusual to experience indigestion or heartburn after a large meal, eating spicy, rich or fatty foods or simply eating too fast. If you find you are experiencing these symptoms quite often however, be sure to speak to your pharmacist or doctor, as a recurrent burning sensation, burping or sore throats may indicate a more serious underlying problem. Sometimes indigestion and heartburn can be caused by other medicines you are taking – be sure to talk to our friendly pharmacists to check that this isn't the cause. If you are experiencing pain in the chest that is worse with or after exercise, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Non-Medicine Treatments

There are many, non-drug, options you can use to help relieve or prevent heartburn and indigestion. These conditions are often caused or worsened by certain foods so avoiding situations that you know cause you to have heartburn may be the best treatment you can use – so if you know eating that curry always causes you problems, just don't eat the curry! Also, alcohol and caffeine are known to worsen symptoms, so reducing your intake of these may be beneficial.

Other things that may help include using an extra pillow to raise your head at night when you have symptoms (so that gravity can help keep your stomach acid where it's meant to be); avoiding eating or drinking for a couple of hours before lying down; and eating smaller meals.

Medicine Treatments

If symptoms are causing considerable discomfort, an antacid may be of benefit. There are several different types of antacid available and pharmacy staff will be able to help you select the one most suitable for you. Most will contain aluminium, magnesium or calcium salts, which work to lower the acidity of stomach contents.

An antacid containing alginate is often most useful for heartburn as it creates a floating barrier on the top of the stomach contents to prevent them from rising up.

Other medications that help reduce production of acid in the stomach are now available over the counter at the pharmacy – your pharmacist will be happy to discuss whether these medications would be suitable for you.

Don't forget you can always speak to one of our helpful pharmacists at any of our 6 handy Healthpoint locations.

Please Note: The advice on this website is to be used as an educational aid only. It is not intended to replace advice from your qualified GP or medical practitioner. Please ensure that you speak to them in relation to all of your health issues.