Smaller meals, time before lying down and identifying triggers may reduce symptoms.
Do not lie down for two to three hours after eating, reduce very large meals and identify personal triggers such as fatty or spicy foods. Repeatedly self-medicating with antacids is not appropriate. Difficulty swallowing, weight loss, vomiting blood or black stools require urgent assessment.
Medical principle
Many digestive symptoms are temporary, but their intensity, duration, pattern and accompanying signs determine whether self-care is enough. Broadly eliminating foods without a diagnosis can cause nutritional deficiencies.
Practical steps that may help
- Record symptoms, foods, medicines and bowel patterns for several days to help identify connections.
- Eat slowly, increase fibre gradually and drink adequate fluids.
- Do not use over-the-counter digestive medicines long term without investigating the cause.
When should you seek medical care?
Bleeding, black stools, persistent vomiting, fever, weight loss, severe or worsening pain, a rigid abdomen, inability to pass gas or dehydration need prompt assessment.
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