Indigestion

What is indigestion?

Indigestion is a common problem many people experience after eating. It is the discomfort or pain in the upper belly, often felt after meals. In medical terms, indigestion is called dyspepsia. It can make you feel full too quickly, cause bloating, or even lead to nausea. In Africa, where food is a big part of social life, many people suffer from indigestion without knowing what causes it or how to manage it.

How common is indigestion among Africans?

Indigestion is a widespread issue across Africa. Many people frequently complain of stomach discomfort, bloating, and heartburn, especially after eating heavy meals like fufu and palm nut soup, kenkey and fried fish. Spicy foods, excessive oil, and overeating contribute to indigestion, yet many dismiss it as normal. According to studies, a significant number of people in Africa experience digestive problems, but only a few seek medical attention.

What causes indigestion?

Indigestion happens when the stomach struggles to break down food properly. Several factors contribute to this, including:

• Eating habits:
• Eating too much or too fast
• Consuming spicy, greasy, or fatty foods
• Drinking too much alcohol • Lying down immediately after eating
• Lifestyle factors:
• High stress levels
• Smoking
• Lack of physical activity •        Medications:
• Painkillers like aspirin and ibuprofen
• Antibiotics
• Some high blood pressure medications
• Medical conditions:
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): When stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn.
• Peptic ulcers: Sores in the stomach lining.
• Lactose intolerance: Difficulty digesting dairy products.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): A condition causing stomach pain, bloating, and diarrhoea.

Symptoms of indigestion?

Indigestion presents differently in different people, but common signs include:

• A burning sensation in the stomach or chest (heartburn)
• Feeling full too quickly during meals
• Bloating or excessive gas
• Nausea and occasional vomiting
• A sour taste in the mouth due to acid reflux

Severe symptoms that require urgent medical attention include:

• Vomiting blood or black-colored stools
• Difficulty swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent stomach pain

Complications of indigestion?

Most cases of indigestion are mild, but when persistent, it can lead to serious problems such as:

• Chronic acid reflux, which may damage the food pipe (esophagus).
• Esophageal stricture, a narrowing of the esophagus that makes swallowing difficult.
• Malnutrition, as ongoing indigestion may make eating difficult, leading to nutrient deficiencies.

How to treat and prevent indigestion?

Medications

Doctors may prescribe medicines to help relieve symptoms, including:

• Antacids: Over-the-counter drugs that neutralize stomach acid.
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Reduce stomach acid production.
• H2 blockers: Slow down acid production in the stomach.
• Prokinetics: Help the stomach empty food faster.

Home remedies and lifestyle changes?

If you often experience indigestion, try these natural remedies and lifestyle changes:

• Watch your diet:
• Avoid eating large meals; instead, eat smaller portions more frequently.
• Cut down on oily and spicy foods.
• Reduce alcohol, coffee, and carbonated drinks.
• Drink more water to help digestion.
• Change your eating habits:
• Eat slowly and chew food properly.
• Avoid eating late at night.
• Do not lie down immediately after eating.
• Adopt a healthy lifestyle:
• Engage in regular physical activity.
• Reduce stress through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation.
• Quit smoking.

When to see a doctor?

Many people in Africa ignore indigestion and rely on home remedies. While mild cases often resolve on their own, you should see a doctor if:

• Your symptoms last more than two weeks.
• You experience unexplained weight loss.
• You have difficulty swallowing.
• You notice blood in your vomit or stool.