K30/R12
DESCRIPTION
Dyspepsia, heartburn and indigestion are common conditions and may be caused by gastro-oesophageal reflux.
These conditions often present with epigastric discomfort and minimal change in bowel habits.
Intermittent indigestion, heartburn or dyspepsia may be associated with:
- use of NSAIDs e.g. aspirin, ibuprofen, pain powders
- spicy food, alcohol, carbonated drinks
- smoking
Note: Dyspeptic symptoms may possibly be due to acute coronary syndrome.
GENERAL MEASURES
- Stop smoking.
- Limit alcohol intake.
- Eat small frequent meals.
- Avoid late night meals.
- Check haemoglobin.
- Stop the use of potential ulcerogenic medicines e.g. NSAIDs.
MEDICINE TREATMENT
Initiate medicine therapy with:
- Proton-pump inhibitor e.g.:
- Lansoprazole, oral, 30 mg, daily for a maximum of 14 days.
- Also indicated for short-term use in pregnancy.
- Refer if symptoms recur after 14-day course of therapy.
REFERRAL
- Presence of warning signs:
- weight loss
- anaemia
- persistent vomiting
- haematemesis
- dysphagia
- palpable abdominal mass
- No response within 7 days of starting proton-pump inhibitor therapy treatment.
- Recurrence of symptoms, especially:
- > 50 years of age
- previous gastric surgery
- family history of gastric carcinoma