When to refer
There are certain symptoms that should ring alarm bells. Get your pharmacist involved if a customer reports any of the following:
- Continual indigestion symptoms for the first time if they are aged over 55 years
- Severe, constant or worsening pain
- Blood-stained vomit or black, tarry stools
- Pain radiating down the arm or into the back
- Unexpected weight loss
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Symptoms experienced by children
- Heartburn or indigestion that has not responded to OTC remedies.
Signposting
For more information, you can:
- Use your Counter Intelligence Plus training guide
- Visit NHS Choices – indigestionÂ
- Visit NHS Choices – gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Update your knowledge on indigestion and heartburn in pregnancy by visiting NHS Choices
- Look at information provided by the digestive diseases charity Core
- Read the NICE guidance on GORD.