Putting your knowledge in practice
PUTTING YOUR KNOWLEDGE IN PRACTICE
PREVENTING INDIGESTION
Indigestion can be managed or prevented at home; it is rare that a serious underlying condition is the cause.2 There are many causes of indigestion and often these triggers can be avoided or tackled by simple lifestyle changes.
Think about some prevention tips you could give your customer. 2-5
WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING TIPS WOULD YOU ADVISE YOUR CUSTOMERS TO DO OR NOT DO IN ORDER TO HELP PREVENT INDIGESTION?
Tick either DO or DON'T for each statement and then submit your answers below.
| DO | DON'T | |
|---|---|---|
| Cut down on caffeinated, fizzy or alcoholic drinks | ||
| Eat a lot of rich, spicy or fatty foods | ||
| Eat smaller, more frequent meals | ||
| Over-eat, rush food or eat 3 to 4 hours before bed | ||
| Try to lose weight if you are overweight | ||
| Avoid certain medicines (unless prescribed), eg NSAIDs | ||
| Smoke | ||
| Raise the head and shoulders up when in bed to stop acid coming up while sleeping | ||
| Wear clothes that are tight around the waist | ||
| Try to reduce stress |
SUMMARY
Indigestion is very common and will affect most people at some point.
Prevalence may be higher in some groups of people (e.g. pregnancy), however, it can often be managed at home through prevention methods and treatment options
Understanding the difference between products available OTC will enable you to give accurate and helpful advice to customers
Rennie tablets are fast-acting and effective at relieving symptoms of indigestion. Containing antacids, they provide almost instant relief and are easy to use on-the-go.