What causes indigestion and heartburn?

Heartburn is a burning feeling that can rise from the upper abdomen or chest toward the throat, often with a sour taste. Indigestion can include fullness, bloating, nausea or discomfort after eating. Acid reflux may cause both, and a hiatus hernia can make reflux easier by changing the position of the junction between the food pipe and stomach.

Gastritis, a peptic ulcer or Helicobacter pylori infection can irritate the upper digestive tract and feel like indigestion, with or without heartburn. Gallstones can cause upper-abdominal pain that may be confused with digestive discomfort. The symptom combination does not establish one diagnosis; timing and associated features help separate possibilities.

Try smaller meals, eat slowly, avoid lying down soon after eating and identify personal triggers such as alcohol, smoking or particular foods. Looser clothing around the abdomen and raising the upper body during sleep may reduce reflux for some people. Keep a symptom diary rather than making broad dietary restrictions.

A pharmacist can discuss acid reflux medication, while recurring symptoms should be reviewed by a clinician. Mention anti-inflammatory painkillers and all supplements because some can irritate the stomach or worsen reflux.

Get urgent help for chest pressure, breathlessness, sweating, fainting, vomiting blood, black stools or severe abdominal pain. Book a medical review for difficulty swallowing, repeated vomiting, symptoms that keep returning, persistent hoarseness, reduced appetite or unplanned weight loss.

Ask whether reflux best explains both symptoms, whether a hiatus hernia, gastritis, ulcer or infection should be considered, and which treatment is suitable with your other medicines.