Common Digestive Issues You May Experience
Recognising the Symptoms and Seeking Relief
Have you ever experienced a burning sensation in your chest, a sour or bitter taste in your mouth, or pain and discomfort in your stomach after eating? You may be experiencing heartburn, acid reflux or indigestion.
We've all been there – that moment when a delightful meal turns into an evening of discomfort, or when the excitement of a night out is dampened by that all-too-familiar burning sensation in the chest. Digestive issues, while common, can often be confusing and even a bit intimidating. The Quick-Eze® team are here to shed light on these frustrating stomach issues, ensuring you're well-equipped to recognise, understand, and assist in addressing them.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll journey through the maze of digestive issues, from the occasional heartburn to more chronic conditions. Our aim? To equip you with the knowledge you need, allowing you to tackle common digestive issues with confidence and continue with your day.
What Are Some Common Digestive Issues?
Digestive issues are something most of us deal with at some point—it’s more common than you might think! Whether it’s feeling bloated after a big meal or the occasional heartburn that sneaks up on you, these discomforts are a normal part of life. Essentially, digestive issues happen when your digestive system, which handles breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and getting rid of waste, isn’t running as smoothly as it should.
What Are Some Common Digestive Issues?
Heartburn
Heartburn is a familiar foe for many. It's that uncomfortable burning sensation in or around the area between your chest (just above your stomach) and your throat.
Common Heartburn Symptoms may include:
- A burning sensation in the chest, often after eating.
- A sour or bitter taste in the mouth.
- Discomfort that worsens when lying down or bending over.
Indigestion
Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is a general term for pain or discomfort in the stomach.
Common Indigestion symptoms may include:
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Burping or gas
Acid Reflux
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid backs up into the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. This can irritate the lining of your oesophagus, leading to heartburn.
Common symptoms of Acid Reflux may include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing, throat discomfort and hoarseness
- bad breath
- Frequent belching
If these symptoms occur often, consider consulting a healthcare professional.
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
GERD is a more persistent and severe form of acid reflux. If you experience acid reflux more than twice a week, it could be GERD[1]
Common GERD symptoms may include:
Constipation
Constipation occurs when bowel movements become infrequent or difficult to pass. It’s often caused by a lack of fibre, dehydration, or inactivity.14
Common constipation symptoms may include:
- Infrequent bowel movements (fewer than three per week).14
- Hard, dry, or lumpy stools.14
- Straining or discomfort during bowel movements.14
Diarrhoea
Diarrhoea is characterised by loose, watery stools and often comes on suddenly. It can be triggered by food, stress, or mild gut irritation.15
Common diarrhoea symptoms may include:
- Frequent, loose, or watery stools15
- Abdominal cramping or urgency15
- Dehydration or feeling weak.15
If you’re experiencing these symptoms frequently, it might be time to see a healthcare professional.
What causes digestive issues?
Digestive issues can arise from a variety of factors, ranging from lifestyle habits to medical conditions. Here are some common causes:
1. Diet, Hydration, and Eating Habits
What you eat and how you eat can have a big impact on your digestion. Foods high in fat can be tough on your stomach and skipping fibre or not drinking enough water might leave you feeling sluggish or constipated.
2. Lack of Physical Activity
A sedentary lifestyle can slow down digestion, leading to issues like constipation or bloating. Regular physical activity helps stimulate the digestive system and keeps everything moving smoothly.
3. Medications
Certain medications, like antibiotics, can throw off your gut’s natural balance, and others, like painkillers, might irritate your stomach. It’s a common side effect and usually temporary.
4. Chronic Conditions
Conditions like IBS or GERD can significantly impact digestion, causing symptoms such as pain, reflux, or irregular bowel habits. While these are chronic, they can often be managed effectively with proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments.
5. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations, such as during pregnancy, or menopause can affect digestion by slowing it down or causing bloating. These changes are natural but can still be challenging to manage at times.
Digestive Health Tips
A healthy digestive system is key to overall well-being. By making simple lifestyle and dietary changes, you can support your digestive health which may help prevent stomach issues and keep your gut functioning at its best.
Incorporate Gut-Friendly Foods
A fibre-rich diet can help nourish beneficial gut bacteria and help prevent stomach issues like bloating, constipation, or other digestive issues17.
Improve Sleep Quality
Poor sleep is linked to a higher risk of obesity, which can contribute to digestive disorders. Prioritizing restful sleep supports overall health, including gut function.18
Stay Active
Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, which helps reducing the risk of digestive issues. Exercise is key for overall well-being and gut motility.18
Water
Water is important for digestion and maintaining regular bowel movements. It keeps stools soft and well-formed, making them easier to pass.
Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support a healthy balance in your gut. Consuming probiotic-rich foods or supplements can help maintain this balance and promote digestive health.17
When to Consult a Medical Professional About Your Stomach Issues
While occasional stomach issues such as heartburn or indigestion might not be cause for alarm, persistent symptoms should be addressed.
Always seek medical assistance if:[7]
- You experience frequent and worsening heartburn symptoms.
- Over-the-counter treatments don't provide relief.
- You have difficulty swallowing[8] or experience unintentional weight loss.[9]
- There's blood in your vomit [10] or stool.[11]
Finding Relief relief from digestive issues symptoms with Quick-Eze®
For those days (or nights) when you need a couple of coffees to get going, have one too many hot wings, treat yourself to your favourite chocolate, or have a late dinner out with workmates, heartburn or indigestion shouldn't slow you down.
Quick-Eze® offers rapid relief from digestive issues like heartburn, indigestion and acid reflux enabling you to get on with life. Whether you prefer the Quick-Eze® Original formula tablets or our unique Quick-Eze® chewable antacids in Peppermint or Forest Berry flavours, Quick-Eze® is your companion when life throws a curveball.
Why Choose Quick-Eze® for your digestive health?
- Efficacy: Quick and effective rapid relief.
- Flavour: No need to compromise on taste.
- Texture: Choose from original or chewy tablets.
- Convenience: Easy to carry and available on the go.
Made in Australia, Quick-Eze® is an antacid that can provide rapid relief when you need it the most. Experience relief from the discomforts of common digestive issues including heartburn and indigestion, so you can quickly get back to living life.
Digestive issues can be a hindrance to your quality of life in small but significant ways. Understanding the symptoms and causes of your stomach issues can empower you to seek the proper treatment. Whether it's making dietary changes, adopting stress-relieving practices, changing your lifestyle, or reaching for a trusted remedy like Quick-Eze®, you have the power to manage and alleviate these discomforts.
The Importance of a Holistic Approach to Digestive Health
Our digestive system, often dubbed the body's “second brain”, plays a pivotal role in our overall well-being. From breaking down the foods we relish to absorbing vital nutrients and even influencing our mood, its importance cannot be overstated.
While digestive issues like heartburn and acid reflux can be discomforting interruptions in our daily lives, it's heartening to know that rapid relief is within arm’s reach with antacids like Quick-Eze®. However, as with all health matters, striking a balance is essential.
The advantages and disadvantages of antacids
Antacids, while effective in providing rapid relief, are not a one-size-fits-all or long-term solution. Their impact on gut health, from altering our stomach's acid levels to potentially affecting our gut's microbiome, underscores the importance of informed choices.
If you are grappling with persistent digestive issues, it's always wise to consult a healthcare professional (such as your GP or a gut health specialist (a.k.a. Gastroenterologists).[12] They can provide insights tailored to your unique needs, promoting a healthy digestive system and gut health.[13]
Remember, every individual's digestive journey is unique. By arming yourself with knowledge and seeking expert guidance from a medical professional, you can navigate this journey with confidence and grace - every single day. Here's to happy, healthy tummies and a life lived without compromise!
If your symptoms persist, talk to your health professional. Always read the label and follow the directions for use.
[1] https://aci.health.nsw.gov.au/networks/eci/clinical/ed-factsheets/gastro-oesophageal-reflux-disease
[2] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/gord-reflux
[3] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/gord-reflux
[4] https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/gimotility/gi_disorders/what_is_acid_reflux
[5] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/acid-reflux-and-bad-breath
[6] https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/gimotility/gi_disorders/what_is_acid_reflux
[7] https://aci.health.nsw.gov.au/networks/eci/clinical/ed-factsheets/gastro-oesophageal-reflux-disease#heading-9
[8] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/heartburn
[9] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/heartburn
[10] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/heartburn
[11] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/blood-in-stool#doctor
[12] https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/serviceprofiles/Gastroenterologist-services
[13] https://research.csiro.au/guthealthco/
Digestive Issues Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes Digestive Problems?
There are a multitude of differing factors that can lead to digestive disorders. The most common causes that lead to issues such as reflux and heartburn include:
- A low-fibre diet
- Eating too much dairy products
- Travelling or other changes in routine
- Too much stress
- Not getting enough exercise
- Pregnancy
- Taking antacid medicines containing calcium or aluminium
- Taking certain medicines such as antidepressants
What are four signs of poor functioning of the digestive system?
Persistent issues like bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, or heartburn could mean your digestive system is having trouble breaking down food and clearing out waste efficiently.16
What Are Digestive Disorders?
Digestive disorders describe a wide variety of gastrointestinal diseases that range from mild to severe. The most common digestive disorders include reflux, heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance, and hiatal hernia.
How To Fix Digestive Issues
Every digestive disorder is different, and knowing the right fix for your gut health issues isn’t always clear-cut. Generally, doctors recommend eating a healthy, fibre-rich diet which can ensure a healthy bowel. For relief form heartburn and indigestion Quick-Eze® can provide rapid temporary relief. For medicinal and non-medicinal heartburn treatments, read our guide here.
How can I reset my digestive system?
You can’t exactly “reset” your digestive system, but you can improve how it works with a few thoughtful changes. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep things moving and prevents constipation. Adding whole, fibre-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to your diet can help support your digestive health and promote regular digestion, making your system feel its best.
