Symptoms of Indigestion and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Symptoms of Indigestion and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

, and Suitable Treatments from Nature Pharmacy

Reader Question: What are the symptoms of indigestion and IBS?

This is a common question, and it’s understandable why someone would ask. Often, people only associate indigestion with the sudden pain that strikes in their abdomen, causing discomfort. In this article, we will discuss various related topics such as the symptoms of severe indigestion, causes of indigestion and bloating, and even the psychological symptoms of indigestion (yes, unfortunately, they are real).

At the end, we’ll also cover natural remedies for indigestion as well as treatments available from the pharmacy. But before discussing the symptoms of indigestion and IBS, let’s first define what indigestion is.

What is Indigestion (Dyspepsia)?

Indigestion (dyspepsia) refers to discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, which may occur before, during, or after eating. This discomfort is often accompanied by a persistent feeling of fullness and a lack of desire to eat. Sometimes, indigestion can even lead to nausea or vomiting. These are the primary symptoms of indigestion and also sometime appear with IBS.

Indigestion itself is not a disease but rather a symptom of another underlying condition, much like a fever indicates the presence of an illness. Therefore, if you experience any symptoms of indigestion or IBS, it’s best to seek out the underlying cause as soon as possible.

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

IBS refers to a disorder in the communication between the brain and the intestines, leading to several unpleasant symptoms that can disrupt daily life. Due to the inconsistency in bowel movements, those with IBS may experience bloating, constipation, diarrhea, unusual stomach sounds, depression, and severe anxiety, as well as chronic fatigue.

Though the exact cause of IBS is unknown, it’s estimated to affect about one-fifth of the world’s population, with women being more affected than men. For every man with IBS, there are three women suffering from the same condition.

What are the Symptoms of Indigestion and IBS?

First, it’s important to clarify that indigestion is one of the symptoms of IBS. So, the following causes and symptoms can apply to both conditions:

• Discomfort in the upper abdomen: A sensation of discomfort between the navel and below the chest bone, with varying intensity from mild to severe pain that can even make breathing difficult.
• Bloating: This typically occurs in the upper abdomen and can be particularly embarrassing when in social situations, as the feeling of fullness drives the person to use the restroom frequently to try to relieve the discomfort.
• Feeling full quickly: With only a small amount of food, the person may feel uncomfortably full, even though their body still needs more nourishment.
• Persistent fullness: After eating, the person may feel an unpleasant fullness, not from satiation but from bloating and discomfort.
• Burning sensation in the upper abdomen: A burning feeling may arise from below the chest bone to the navel and can sometimes extend to the neck or back.
• Nausea and vomiting: The person might feel like they are about to vomit, and even simple actions like burping or smelling strong odors might provoke vomiting.

What Causes Indigestion?

As we discussed with IBS, the exact cause is often unclear. However, for indigestion, there are both natural causes that can affect anyone and pathological causes related to underlying diseases.

Common Causes of Indigestion:

• Overeating: Whether in a single large meal or frequent snacking throughout the day, overeating can lead to indigestion.
• Eating too quickly: Many believe digestion starts in the stomach, but in reality, it begins in the mouth during chewing. Saliva contains enzymes that aid in digestion after the food is swallowed. Therefore, doctors recommend eating slowly and thoroughly chewing each bite (about 40-50 times) before swallowing.
• Consuming fatty foods: Especially those high in saturated fats, which can lead to indigestion and other health problems like obesity.
• Excessive consumption of caffeine, chocolate, or soda: Overindulgence in these substances can also lead to indigestion.
• Stress: A common cause of indigestion is psychological stress, as emotional upset often manifests in stomach problems.

Medical Causes of Indigestion:

• Helicobacter pylori infection
• Gastritis or peptic ulcers
• Gallstones
• Thyroid disorders
• Iron supplements
• Bowel obstruction
• Slow blood flow to the intestines
• Diabetes
• Pregnancy

Is Indigestion Dangerous?

Some may be able to live with indigestion, but is it dangerous in itself, or can it lead to other complications? Generally, indigestion is not life-threatening. The discomfort and mental distress it causes are usually the most bothersome aspects. However, the danger lies in the similarity of indigestion symptoms to those of more serious conditions like angina or heart attacks.

If indigestion is accompanied by chronic diarrhea, constipation, or bloody stools, seeking medical advice is crucial.

Home Remedies for Indigestion

To avoid medication, it’s best to prevent the habits that lead to indigestion. Following a healthier lifestyle and avoiding certain behaviors can be very effective. Additionally, there are some easy, affordable, and accessible home remedies, such as:

• Drinking plenty of water to aid digestion
• Keeping the stomach warm, as cold temperatures can aggravate indigestion
• A mixture of lemon and water can help neutralize stomach acid, especially with a little unsweetened soda added
• Consuming probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and certain cheeses
• Natural herbs and drinks, such as mint, ginger, chamomile, cinnamon, and licorice root

Pharmacy Treatments for Indigestion

For those who prefer pharmacy solutions, Zymoforte capsules is a quick remedy for digestive problems with no side effects. Zymoforte contains a combination of probiotics (specifically, the yeast Saccharomyces boulardii) and gastrointestinal calming herbs such as ginger, fennel, turmeric, and pineapple.

In conclusion, while indigestion and IBS symptoms can be uncomfortable and disruptive, they are usually manageable. By changing unhealthy habits and adopting natural or pharmaceutical remedies, relief is achievable. However, if symptoms persist, it’s important to seek medical advice.

Sources;

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome- Mayo Clinic.
2. Indigestion-WebMD.
3. Irritable bowel syndrome – Symptoms and causes- Mayo Clinic.
4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – NIDDK
5. Indigestion symptoms and treatment – NIDDK
6. Indigestion- National Institutes of Health (NIH)