The gastrointestinal tract is a complex system extending from your mouth to your anus, responsible for breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste. In Australia, digestive issues affect millions of people, with common conditions including heartburn, indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, and constipation becoming increasingly prevalent due to busy lifestyles and dietary changes.
Maintaining optimal gut health is crucial for overall wellbeing, as your digestive system houses approximately 70% of your immune system. A balanced gut microbiome supports nutrient absorption, mood regulation, and disease prevention. Seek professional medical advice if you experience persistent symptoms lasting more than two weeks, severe abdominal pain, blood in stools, or unexplained weight loss. Australian pharmacies offer a comprehensive range of evidence-based medications and supplements that can effectively manage digestive concerns, from over-the-counter antacids to probiotics, providing accessible relief for various gastrointestinal conditions.
Acid reflux and heartburn occur when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation in your chest or throat. These symptoms often worsen after eating spicy foods, lying down, or consuming alcohol and caffeine. Many Australians experience occasional heartburn, particularly after large meals or during stressful periods.
Antacids work by neutralising excess stomach acid, providing rapid relief from heartburn and indigestion symptoms. Australian pharmacies stock several effective antacid options:
Unlike acid reducers (H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors) that prevent acid production, antacids neutralise existing acid for immediate relief. Follow dosage instructions carefully, typically taking antacids 1-3 hours after meals. Consult your pharmacist or GP if symptoms persist beyond two weeks or worsen despite treatment.
Diarrhoea affects millions of Australians annually and can result from various causes including viral infections, food poisoning, stress, medications, or chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease. Acute diarrhoea typically resolves within a few days, whilst chronic cases persisting beyond four weeks require medical evaluation.
Dehydration poses the greatest immediate risk, particularly for children and elderly patients. Prevention involves maintaining adequate fluid intake and replacing lost electrolytes promptly.
Hydralyte products and Gastrolyte sachets provide essential electrolyte replacement, helping restore fluid balance more effectively than water alone. These pharmaceutical-grade solutions are formulated to WHO standards.
Probiotics support gut flora restoration following diarrhoeal episodes. During recovery, follow a bland diet including bananas, rice, and toast. Seek medical attention for severe dehydration, blood in stools, high fever, or symptoms persisting beyond 48 hours.
Constipation affects up to 20% of Australians and manifests as infrequent bowel movements, straining, or incomplete evacuation. Contributing factors include inadequate fibre intake, insufficient fluid consumption, sedentary lifestyle, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions.
Treatment selection depends on constipation type, patient age, and underlying conditions. Bulk-forming agents suit long-term management, whilst stimulants provide short-term relief. Children and elderly patients require modified dosing and careful monitoring.
Adequate water intake (8-10 glasses daily) enhances all laxative effectiveness. Consult healthcare professionals if constipation persists beyond one week or accompanies severe abdominal pain.
Nausea and vomiting can result from various causes including motion sickness, viral infections, food poisoning, pregnancy, medication side effects, or underlying medical conditions. Motion sickness occurs when your inner ear, eyes, and other sensory organs send conflicting signals to your brain during travel.
Several effective treatments are available for nausea and motion sickness:
Natural remedies like ginger preparations can provide gentle relief for mild nausea. Prevention strategies include choosing appropriate seating, maintaining good ventilation, and avoiding heavy meals before travel. Pregnancy-related nausea often responds well to ginger supplements and small frequent meals. Seek urgent medical attention if nausea is accompanied by severe abdominal pain, high fever, signs of dehydration, or persistent vomiting.
Digestive enzymes break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, enabling proper nutrient absorption. Some individuals require enzyme supplementation due to pancreatic insufficiency, cystic fibrosis, or other digestive disorders that impair natural enzyme production.
Available enzyme supplements include:
Probiotic supplements help maintain healthy gut microbiome balance, supporting immune function and digestive health. Prebiotic fibres feed beneficial bacteria, promoting their growth and activity. Supporting digestive health involves eating a varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, staying hydrated, managing stress levels, and maintaining regular physical activity. Complementary therapies may include herbal remedies, mindfulness practices, and dietary modifications tailored to individual needs.
