GERD and indigestion: what should you know?

Indigestion may feel like upper-abdominal discomfort, early fullness, bloating, belching, or burning after eating. GERD is reflux that reaches the oesophagus and can add heartburn, a sour taste, regurgitation, or symptoms that worsen when lying down. A hiatus hernia can make reflux easier, while gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, gallstones, and Helicobacter pylori infection can produce similar upper-abdominal complaints. These symptoms overlap, so indigestion alone does not identify one condition.

Notice whether symptoms follow large meals, fatty foods, alcohol, coffee, or lying down soon after eating. Smaller meals, slower eating, and staying upright after food may reduce reflux. Avoid clothing that presses on the abdomen and raise the head of the bed if night symptoms disturb sleep. A clinician or pharmacist can explain whether acid reflux medication is suitable, how to use it, and when it should be reviewed. Keep a brief symptom and food diary so the pattern is clear.

Arrange medical care for symptoms that keep returning, interfere with sleep, or do not settle with sensible changes. Seek urgent help for chest pressure, trouble breathing, vomiting blood, black stools, severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, or difficulty swallowing. Unintentional weight loss, loss of appetite, or persistent vomiting also deserves prompt review.

Ask whether the pattern fits reflux, another digestive problem, or a medicine side effect; whether testing for Helicobacter pylori is appropriate; and how long to try treatment before a review.