Imagine you've just had a great dinner, but soon after, you're experiencing abdominal discomfort, gas, or even nausea. This is not unusual. In fact, this is a common problem encountered by many middle-aged and elderly people - indigestion. This is not just a minor problem, and long-term neglect can lead to more serious health problems. So, what are the possible causes behind indigestion? Let's find out.
The main cause of indigestion
1. Improper eating habits
Diet is the most direct factor affecting digestive health. Excessive intake of greasy foods, spicy foods, or eating too quickly can lead to indigestion. When food is ingested quickly, the stomach does not have enough time to adapt, resulting in insufficient secretion of digestive enzymes and food not being fully digested. In addition, late dinner can also affect gastrointestinal function due to the regulation of the body's biological clock.
2. Lack of sleep
Sleep and digestive health go hand in hand. Lack of sleep can affect the normal functioning of the digestive system, especially the secretion of stomach acid and intestinal peristalsis. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation can lead to an imbalance in the gut flora, which not only affects digestion but can also trigger broader health problems.
3. Stress state
Stress is an inevitable part of modern life, and it directly affects gastrointestinal function. Long-term stress will increase gastric acid secretion, slow down intestinal peristalsis, and then affect the digestion and absorption of food. Psychological stress can also induce or exacerbate gastroesophageal reflux disease and other digestive disorders.
4. Medication side effects
Many medications, particularly nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as aspirin), certain antibiotics and iron, can irritate the stomach lining and cause indigestion. Older people often take multiple drugs for a long time due to chronic diseases, and they need to be more aware of the possible digestive side effects of these drugs.
5. Chronic diseases
Certain chronic diseases such as abnormal glucose metabolism (diabetes), increased blood pressure in the systemic arteries (hypertension), chronic gastritis, and cholecystitis can cause indigestion by affecting the body's normal physiological functions. In particular, diabetics can cause indigestion due to poor blood sugar control that can lead to delayed gastric emptying.
By understanding these common causes, you can take better steps to prevent or improve the symptoms of indigestion. The key is to eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, manage stress in your life, and be alert to the medications you take and understand the possible side effects.
A key step in diagnosing dyspepsia
Understanding symptoms
Indigestion, medically known as digestive dysfunction, common symptoms include stomach upset, bloating, belching, or early satiety. These symptoms can be caused by food intolerances, abnormal gastric motility, or deficiencies in digestive enzymes. Recognizing these symptoms is the first step in the initial diagnosis of dyspepsia.
A detailed history is sought
The patient is asked in detail about their diet, the timing and frequency of symptoms, and accompanying symptoms. For example, information such as how long after food ingestion becomes unwell, how long the discomfort lasts, and the relationship between the type of food and the discomfort are all important in making the diagnosis.
physical examination
Physical examination may reveal signs of abdominal tenderness and flatulence, which may indicate physical manifestations of dyspepsia. In addition, the doctor observes the patient's overall nutritional status, as long-term indigestion can lead to malabsorption of nutrients.
Functional testing
For example, gastric emptying tests can help assess how quickly the stomach processes food, and gastroscopy can be used to visualize the state of the gastric mucosa and rule out organic diseases such as gastritis or gastric ulcers. In addition, breath tests or blood tests can be used to diagnose specific digestive problems, such as lactose intolerance.
Inspection and imaging
When necessary, blood tests can help identify abnormalities in inflammatory markers or associated enzyme activity to rule out certain digestive disorders. Ultrasound of the abdomen helps to look for structural abnormalities in the liver, gallbladder and pancreas.
Prevention and management strategies for dyspepsia
Eat regularly and healthily
Avoid excessive intake of high-fat, high-sugar foods, which can easily cause indigestion. It is recommended to eat a separate meal system, that is, eat more than one meal a day, which can reduce the burden on the stomach and improve digestion.
Increase dietary fiber
Dietary fiber helps the movement of food in the digestive tract, can prevent constipation, and improve gastrointestinal peristalsis. Consuming fiber-rich foods such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables is a recommended daily dietary choice.
Exercise in moderation
Proper physical activity can enhance gastrointestinal motility and promote food digestion and absorption. It is advisable to take a light walk after a meal, but avoid strenuous exercise immediately after a meal.
Manage stress
Long-term psychological stress and anxiety can lead to digestive system dysfunction, so learning effective stress management techniques is crucial. Try meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques to help reduce mental stress.
Avoid unnecessary drug use
Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can cause gastrointestinal upset. Follow your doctor's instructions when using these drugs and seek possible alternatives.