Indigestion Specialist
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Downtown Gastro Medical Group
Daniel Brelian, M.D.
Gastroenterologist located in Downtown, Los Angeles, CA
Persistent pain or discomfort after eating is a sign of indigestion, a common condition that can indicate gastrointestinal stress. At Downtown Gastro Medical Group, Dr. Daniel Brelian treats indigestion and other digestive concerns at his Los Angeles practice. Since symptoms can worsen over time, it’s best to understand and treat the root cause of indigestion. Call today or schedule online to book an appointment.
Indigestion Q & A
What is indigestion?
Indigestion is characterized by a feeling of fullness, pain, or bloating in the stomach or upper abdominal area. Sometimes people with indigestion also have gas, a growling stomach, belching, nausea, or heartburn. In most cases, indigestion is the result of another medical condition or gastrointestinal problem.
What causes indigestion?
There are many different factors that can contribute to the development of indigestion. Some common causes are:
- Eating too quickly or overeating
- Consuming fatty, greasy foods
- Drinking too many carbonated beverages
- Smoking
When indigestion is not caused by lifestyle or dietary habits, it might be the result of a gastrointestinal disorder, such as:
- An intestinal blockage
- Celiac disease
- Constipation
- Peptic ulcers
- Pancreatitis
- Intestinal ischemia
- Gastritis
While indigestion itself is usually not a serious medical problem, it can create discomfort and pain. If it’s related to another health condition, you might also have other uncomfortable symptoms or your indigestion could get worse over time.
How is indigestion treated?
Dr. Brelian first starts with a comprehensive medical evaluation. He asks about your symptoms, reviews your health history, and may order specific tests to determine the cause of your indigestion or what other gastrointestinal problems may be present. These tests might include a colonoscopy, endoscopy, X-rays, or breath and stool tests.
Your treatment plan is customized to your individual needs, but it may include:
- Dietary modifications: Eating smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods, and reducing your alcohol and caffeine consumption may help relieve indigestion
- Medications: Along with the right diet, Dr. Brelian can prescribe medication to help reduce stomach acid, stomach emptying, or to fight off harmful bacteria
Some patients also see an improvement in symptoms when they learn to manage stress and anxiety.
What results can I expect?
Treating the underlying cause of your indigestion usually makes symptoms disappear. Dr. Brelian can help you learn and implement better habits to support your digestive health. When it comes to your diet and lifestyle, it can be helpful to keep a food log to track which foods cause you pain or discomfort.
To book an appointment with Downtown Gastro Medical Group, call or schedule online today.
