Consultant Gastroenterologist Dr Simon Mark Greenfield says, "Indigestion symptoms can be troublesome but are treatable and with the correct review of your diet it should be possible to help your symptoms get better".
He goes onto explain that posture is just as important as diet and that the best steps are to stay upright and take antacids. However, if symptoms persist you can also try ranitidine. This drug acts within an hour or so to cut down acid production but may need to be taken over several days to get rid of the problem.
If symptoms still persist you may need to obtain omeprazole/lansoprazole (proton pump inhibitors/PPIs) from your GP. These tablets are highly effective at cutting out acid and can transform the lives of people with persistent heartburn or acid indigestion. However, your GP will be unwilling to prescribe these medications long-term without a review by a gastroenterologist.
Top Ten Tips to avoid Heartburn
- Don’t eat and then slouch.
- Avoid late meals, snacks AND drinks before bedtime (because food or fluid in your stomach will reflux upwards into your gullet as you lay flat).
- When bending after a meal keep your back straight – for instance, be careful about stooping when gardening.
- Consume alcohol with care.
- Avoid caffeine.
- Avoid cheese.
- Avoid chocolate.
- Take care with rich/fatty foods.
- Sleep upright.
- Swig some antacids before bed – this can help neutralise any acid that refluxes upwards.
For further details - see What is Indigestion
