Indigestion Treatment

Lifestyle Modifications

To reduce stomach acid production, prevent reflux, and alleviate digestive discomfort through daily habits.

• Adjust dietary habits· Reduce intake of tea, coffee, cola, and alcohol· Avoid rich, spicy, fatty foods, and trigger foods like tomatoes or chocolate· Do not eat 3 to 4 hours before going to bed
• Manage weight and posture· Lose weight if overweight or obese· Raise your head and shoulders when in bed to prevent acid reflux
• Avoid aggravating substances and habits· Stop smoking· Avoid non-prescribed ibuprofen or aspirin, as they can worsen indigestion· Manage stress and anxiety through relaxation techniques

Medicinal Treatment

To neutralize stomach acid, reduce acid production, and protect the esophageal and stomach lining.

• Over-the-counter remedies· Antacids to neutralize stomach acid· Alginates to form a protective barrier in the stomach
• Prescription medications· Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce acid production· H2-receptor blockers to decrease acid secretion
• Pharmacist consultation· Seek advice from a pharmacist for suitable medications, especially during pregnancy· Always check medicine information leaflets for proper usage

Surgical Treatment

To correct underlying structural or pathological conditions that cause severe, persistent, or complicated indigestion, especially when medical management fails.

• Fundoplication· A procedure to reinforce the lower esophageal sphincter, primarily for severe Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) that causes chronic indigestion.
• Hiatus hernia repair· Surgical correction of a hiatus hernia, where part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm, which can be a cause of persistent indigestion.
• Treatment for underlying conditions· Surgical intervention for stomach ulcers resistant to medical treatment· Procedures for stomach cancer or other structural abnormalities identified as the root cause of severe indigestion.

Surgical treatment for indigestion is typically reserved for cases where an underlying condition, such as severe GERD, a hiatus hernia, or other serious pathology, is identified as the cause and is not responsive to conservative or medical management.

Ayurvedic Treatment

To balance Agni (digestive fire), pacify aggravated Doshas (especially Pitta and Vata), and restore optimal digestive function naturally.

• Herbal remedies· Ginger (Adrak) for digestive aid and anti-inflammatory properties· Fennel (Saunf) and Cumin (Jeera) for gas relief and improved digestion· Amla (Indian Gooseberry) for balancing Pitta and promoting gut health
• Dietary and lifestyle adjustments· Eating warm, freshly cooked meals suitable for one's dosha type· Avoiding incompatible food combinations and excessive cold/raw foods· Practicing mindful eating and regular meal times
• Panchakarma therapies· Virechana (therapeutic purgation) to eliminate excess Pitta and toxins contributing to indigestion· Vamana (therapeutic emesis) for Kapha-related digestive issues, under strict medical supervision