What’s the Difference Between Heartburn and Indigestion?
Restrictions have lifted and you’ve overindulged at your favourite restaurant in their new outdoor dining area. Ouch! The all too familiar gurgle and burn starts as heartburn begins to rear its ugly head. Is it actually heartburn or isn’t it? What are the symptoms of heartburn and what are the symptoms of indigestion? Though the terms are used interchangeably, the two are completely different conditions.
Heartburn is the painful feeling in your chest and throat caused by acid reflux. Acid reflux is when stomach acid flows up into your oesophagus. The symptoms of heartburn can last between a few minutes to a few hours, and usually feels worse after you eat. Laying down too soon after you eat can cause heartburn along with consuming alcohol, carbonated beverages, and spicy or acidic foods. Being overweight is one of the main culprits of heartburn.
The symptoms of indigestion include a more generalised feeling of upset in your stomach. Indigestion can trigger numerous additional symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, wind, nausea, and even vomiting. You may experience strange acidic tastes in your mouth and other general digestive unwellness. Indigestion can also be linked to more serious conditions, so if you suffer chronic indigestion, it is best to consult with your medical provider to determine the best way forward.
How Can I Treat Heartburn and Indigestion?
Both conditions can cause great discomfort, and if you experience them very occasionally, you may be able to make simple dietary and lifestyle modifications. Causes and prevention are often linked and embracing these simple changes can make a big difference.
- Stop smoking
- Lose weight
- Cut down processed and high carb foods
- Limit carbonated drinks, alcohol, tea and coffee intake
- Chew gum
- Don’t overeat and avoid certain foods such as raw onion and limit citrus
- Avoid eating within 3 hours of bedtime
- Elevate your head when you go to sleep
If your heartburn or indigestion persist, and self-help measures fail, you may find it necessary to consider gastrointestinal medications to manage your symptoms. You can visit Pharmacy Planet’s comprehensive website for additional information and advice on managing acid reflux and indigestion. We also sell Lansoprazole Capsules online in the UK as well as Omeprazole Losec Capsules online in the UK with quick, discreet service direct to your door and swift despatch. https://www.pharmacyplanet.com
Authored By
HARMINDER ‘HARMY’ KAUR
BSc(hons) Pharmacy
GPhC Number: 2061107
Reviewed By
GURDEV SEHMI
BSc Pharm, MRPharmS, Independent Prescriber, Superintendent Pharmacist, Clinical Lead
GPhC Number: 2050925