Stomach pain & heartburn

When suffering from stomach pain, heartburn or nausea, those affected ask the pharmacist for advice and seek quick help to overcome their symptoms. PTA-Forum has compiled the most important vocabulary, questions and advice on the subject of "dyspeptic complaints".

Many people react to stress or unaccustomed diet by feeling a pressure around their stomach, having stomach pains, belching or even heartburn or nausea. If these problems occur during holidays or a stay abroad, the well-being of those concerned can be severely impaired. Concentrated work or some relaxing days become impossible. Consequently, they seek fast relief from these symptoms.

To consult a doctor in a foreign country is mostly expensive and difficult. Therefore, many affected persons first seek advice at a pharmacist. Which type of medicine PTA or the pharmacist should recommend, depends on the kind of symptoms. Possible are antacids, H₂-antihistamines or herbal medicines. Before recommending any medication, PTA or the pharmacist needs to ask a few questions and clarify if self-medication can be responsibly commended.

Important questions for the consultation

• Since when have you had these symptoms?
• Which disorders are especially severe?
• Did you have a different diet from your normal one during the last few days?
• Is there any explanation for your present problems?
• Have you had much stress currently?
• Do you have any other complaints apart from the stomach pains?
• Have you already taken any medication for this disorder?
• Do you take any medication regularly?
• Have you already consulted a doctor concerning this condition?

Additional information

• Abstain from alcohol and caffeine.
• If you are a smoker, cease the smoking habit.
• Learn a relaxation technique.
• Treat yourself to regular rest phases in day-to-day life.
• Change your eating habits to a diet that is easy on your stomach.
• Eat slowly and chew the food properly.
• A hot-water bottle too has a relaxing effect on your stomach.
• If the symptoms do not improve after three to four days, you must see a doctor.