Cochise Oncology

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What Causes Indigestion?

Nausea, heartburn, and other symptoms of indigestion may affect up to 30% of Americans. Indigestion is a symptom, not a condition, and has many causes. If you receive chemotherapy, your doctor may tell you about experiencing indigestion as a side effect. Fortunately, we can help you manage indigestion regardless of the cause.

What is Indigestion?

Indigestion, also called dyspepsia, usually happens after eating a meal, although it can occur at other times. Your doctor may diagnose indigestion if you have symptoms like:

Feeling excessively full
Heartburn (acid reflux)
Bloating and gas
Nausea
Discomfort or burning in the upper abdomen

Indigestion can develop for many different reasons. The diagnosis and management of your indigestion depend on its underlying cause.

What Causes Indigestion?

Many people develop indigestion due to lifestyle factors, medical conditions, and medications. If you experience indigestion during chemotherapy, talk to your doctor to help manage it.

Lifestyle Factors

Your lifestyle may play a significant role in your indigestion. Factors that make indigestion more likely include:

Overeating or eating too fast
Greasy, fatty, or spicy foods
Caffeine and carbonated beverages
Alcohol
Smoking
Stress or anxiety

Medical Conditions

Many medical conditions can cause indigestion. It is a common symptom of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), ulcers, and many other digestive system concerns. Treating the medical condition can improve your symptoms. We can help you manage complex medical conditions, including IBS, to help you achieve relief.

Medications

Many medications and even supplements can cause indigestion. During your consultation, we will review all the medications you take. Indigestion and other digestive problems are common side effects of chemotherapy. If you have chemotherapy that may cause indigestion, your doctor can prescribe medications to help manage it.

Why Does Chemotherapy Cause Indigestion?

Chemotherapy drugs usually work by interfering with rapidly dividing cells. They target cancer cells, but they also affect healthy cells. The cells that line your digestive system also divide rapidly. As a result, that lining can become damaged and irritated. If indigestion makes you uncomfortable during treatment, make sure to talk to your doctor.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Simply fill out the form on this page to request an appointment and one of our knowledgable team members will reach out to you. Or call our Sierra Vista oncology center to schedule directly at (520) 803-6644.

How Will My Doctor Treat My Indigestion?

Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or a combination of the two. You can often achieve some relief by:

Eating smaller, more frequent meals
Avoiding triggering foods
Resting or sleeping with your head elevated
Avoiding caffeinated or carbonated drinks

Your doctor can treat indigestion in many ways depending on the cause. We offer extensive diagnostic testing to precisely identify the underlying causes of your indigestion. These results will let us develop a customized treatment plan to manage your symptoms and treat the underlying causes.

Testimonials

*Individual Results May Vary

★★★★★ 5/5

At Cochise Oncology, we know optimal cancer treatment places the patient first – and our patients experience this every day. Read what our satisfied patients are saying about their experiences at Cochise Oncology.

From the time I walked in the door, I was treated with care and compassion. The gals up front knew my name from the second day on. Everyone I came in contact with was super! I saw a smiling, kind, compassionate and knowledgeable face from the time I walked in, to the time I walked out. When I asked a question - I got an answer. I was scared. I was anxious. They handled me with grace and that isn't easy. I saw the staff for one reason or another for 30 days straight. I never saw grumpy, angry or an unkind face. I'm getting ready to start the rest of my treatment. I go to my appointments knowing I'm in good - no great hands!

The ladies that work the front desk are very nice and go above and beyond. My Father is a Veteran had some issues navigating the VA system. They called Antonio on his cellphone who is their PR person and a Vet himself he walked my Father through the process in terms a old soldier would understand which my Father really appreciated. Everything got approved for his treatments and he has a new friend to meet up with at the VFW!!! Having them go that extra step made all the difference. THANK YOU COCHISE ONCOLOGY!!!

Fantastic staff! Receptionists are very professional. They are knowledgeable as to my copay amount and always provide me with a receipt. Very friendly! Dr. Klarnett is extremely friendly, very compassionate and providing me with solutions to my problem. Casey the insurance verification clerk is outstanding in regards to prior authorization. Explains in detail what is involved in your treatment plan, co-pays, and penalty if you do not show up for treatment. It's good to know your out of pocket charge if you don't follow her instructions. Meagan is super nurse! Always so friendly. Always a smile on her face while she is multitasking in between patients. Very compassionate, personal, and a joy to talk to. Overall I like coming here for my labs and care.