Indigestion (Dyspepsia)

Key Points

Overview

Indigestion, medically known as dyspepsia, is a common discomfort or pain felt in the upper part of the stomach. It typically occurs after eating or drinking and is usually not a sign of a serious underlying condition. Most people experience indigestion at some point in their lives. The primary cause of indigestion is often stomach acid irritating the lining of the stomach or throat, a condition known as acid reflux. This irritation can be triggered or worsened by various factors, including certain foods and drinks, being overweight, smoking, pregnancy, stress, anxiety, and some medications. While usually mild, indigestion can sometimes be a symptom of more serious issues like a stomach ulcer, or less commonly, stomach cancer. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning signs, medical advice should be sought.

Signs and Symptoms

• Heartburn (painful burning in the chest)
• Feeling full and bloated
• Feeling sick (nausea)
• Burping and farting
• Bringing up food or bitter-tasting fluids

Things That Increase the Risk

• Consuming coffee, tea, cola, or alcohol
• Eating rich, spicy, or fatty foods
• Being overweight
• Smoking
• Pregnancy
• Stress and anxiety
• Using certain medicines (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin)
• Hiatus hernia

Diagnosis

• Review of symptoms and medical history
• Physical examination by a doctor
• Discussion of diet and lifestyle habits
• Further tests for persistent or severe symptoms

Treatment & Management

• Reduce intake of tea, coffee, cola, and alcohol
• Elevate head and shoulders when sleeping
• Lose weight if overweight
• Avoid eating 3-4 hours before bedtime
• Limit rich, spicy, or fatty foods
• Avoid ibuprofen or aspirin unless prescribed
• Stop smoking
• Antacids for quick relief
• Alginates to protect the esophagus
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for acid reduction

Prevention

• Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption
• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Avoid large meals close to bedtime
• Choose a balanced diet with less spicy and fatty foods
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques
• Quit smoking
• Discuss medication side effects with a doctor

Related Diseases

• Acid reflux
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
• Stomach ulcer
• Hiatus hernia
• Stomach cancer

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Indigestion (Dyspepsia):