What tests should be done for indigestion?

Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 15, 2024
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Indigestion is relatively common in clinical practice. Patients can undergo several diagnostic tests to rule out other causes of indigestion. These tests include gastroscopy, complete blood count, liver function tests, Helicobacter pylori testing, and abdominal ultrasound. Generally, if these tests show no issues, especially if the patient's symptoms are persistent and not accompanied by any alarming signs such as fever, bloody stools, vomiting blood, decreased appetite, or weight loss, indigestion is usually considered. In terms of treatment, symptomatic treatment is emphasized. Typically, medications that protect the stomach, improve gastrointestinal motility, and aid digestion can be used and generally provide some degree of control. Of course, this is under the assumption that other causes of abdominal discomfort, such as ulcers, inflammation, or even tumors, have been ruled out. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Yang Chun Guang
Gastroenterology
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What should I do if I have indigestion?

In real life, many people experience symptoms of indigestion after eating, especially those who have had their gallbladder removed or those who are bedridden due to trauma. How should this situation be handled? In clinical practice, medications can be used for treatment. In terms of medication selection, probiotics for the intestines can be utilized along with digestive enzymes. It is recommended to use medicinal probiotics rather than purchasing health supplements. Additionally, people who are bedridden for a long time may have insufficient gastrointestinal motility, so medications that enhance gastrointestinal motility, such as Itopride tablets, should be used. Medication is one aspect; diet also needs attention. It is important to consume easily digestible foods and adequately supplement dietary fiber, which means eating plenty of vegetables and easily digestible foods. (Please use medications under the guidance of a clinical doctor and based on specific conditions)

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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How to treat functional dyspepsia?

Functional dyspepsia, which is considered temporarily non-organic, should first be managed by dietary adjustments. Meals should be regular and portion-controlled to avoid overeating; softer, easily digestible foods should be favored while gas-producing foods like leeks and soy products should be limited. Medications that enhance gastrointestinal motility and accelerate food emptying can be used, as well as those that adjust microbial imbalances. Engaging in moderate outdoor activity after meals can also effectively enhance gastrointestinal motility and promote gastric emptying. (Please take medications under the guidance of a doctor)

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Can indigestion cause chest tightness?

Indigestion generally does not cause chest tightness. The main symptoms of indigestion include upper abdominal pain, accompanied by belching, acid reflux, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea, among others. If a patient experiences chest tightness, along with chest pain and difficulty breathing, it is necessary to consider whether it is due to a cardiac disease or a pulmonary disease, and it is recommended to go to the hospital for a formal examination. Initially, it is important to complete an electrocardiogram and a chest radiograph, followed by cardiac auscultation and pulmonary auscultation.

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Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
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What should I pay attention to usually for indigestion?

Indigestion mainly occurs in diseases such as chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer. In addition to identifying the cause and receiving standardized treatment for indigestion, attention must also be paid to diet and lifestyle habits. It is necessary to quit smoking and drinking alcohol, avoid strong tea, coffee, spicy, fried, grilled, sweet, and cold foods. Furthermore, avoid consuming milk, soy milk, glutinous rice, and sweet potatoes. A diet easy to digest should be prioritized, such as consuming porridge, soups, noodles, and well-stewed meats. Additionally, increasing physical activity is important as it can promote gastrointestinal motility and improve symptoms of indigestion. Avoid staying up late at night.

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Written by Jiang Guo Ming
Gastroenterology
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How to deal with indigestion and nausea?

If symptoms of indigestion and nausea appear in the short term, they may be caused by exposure to cold, improper diet, medication factors, and so on. In such cases, adjusting the diet or discontinuing the related medication should gradually relieve the symptoms. If this condition persists for a long period, it is necessary to rule out upper gastrointestinal issues. Initial steps should include relevant examinations, commonly involving procedures such as gastroscopy, tests for Helicobacter pylori, or upper gastrointestinal imaging, etc. Based on the results of these tests, targeted treatment should be administered, such as eradicating Helicobacter pylori. If there is no Helicobacter pylori infection, symptomatic treatment should be considered, such as enhancing gastric motility, protecting the gastric mucosa, or suppressing stomach acid, etc.