On Call: Heartburn & Indigestion
Heartburn & Indigestion
Definitions
- Indigestion (Dyspepsia) – Uncomfortable Feeling of Fullness, Pain or Burning in the Upper Abdomen
- Symptoms:
- Heartburn – Acid Reflux
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Abdominal Pain
Causes
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Stress/Anxiety
- Diet
- Caffeine
- Chocolate
- Spicy Foods
- Fatty/Fried Food
- Carbonation
- Tobacco
- Alcohol
- Over Eating
- Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD)
- Gastroenteritis
- Celiac Disease
- Pancreatitis
- Gastroparesis
- Pregnancy
- Cholelithiasis
Management
Bloating Relief
- Treat Any Underlying Cause
- Avoid Dietary Triggers – Low FODMAPs Diet Often Recommended
- Avoid Carbonated Drinks
- Simethicone (Gas-X) – Antiflatulent
- Mechanism: Decreases Surface Tension on Gas Bubbles to Better Disperse
- Dose: 40-125 mg After Meals
Heartburn – Acute Management & Immediate Relief
- Elevate the Head of the Bed – Prevent Aspiration
- Avoid Dietary Triggers
- Antacids to Provide Rapid Relief
- Consider Adding a PPI or H2 Blocker for Sustained Relief if Indicated
Chronic Management & GERD Work Up