IBS and indigestion: what to know

Indigestion may feel like burning or discomfort in the upper abdomen, early fullness, belching, nausea, or troublesome fullness after meals. IBS more often involves abdominal pain linked with bowel movements and a change in stool pattern, although symptoms can coexist. Acid reflux, gastritis, Helicobacter pylori infection, peptic ulcer, hiatus hernia, and gallstones can produce similar upper digestive complaints. The timing, location, triggers, and associated symptoms help guide assessment.

Eat at a comfortable pace and consider smaller portions if large meals worsen fullness. Record symptoms alongside meals, alcohol, caffeine, smoking, medicines, and bowel changes. Avoid frequent self-treatment with anti-inflammatory painkillers, which can irritate the stomach. A clinician can review your history and decide whether testing, a medicine trial, or a review of acid reflux medication is appropriate.

Book an appointment when indigestion persists, repeatedly returns, affects eating, or is accompanied by vomiting, difficulty swallowing, anaemia symptoms, or unexplained weight loss. Seek urgent help for severe chest or abdominal pain, vomiting blood, black stool, faintness, or sudden worsening.

Ask whether your symptoms are more consistent with IBS, indigestion, or reflux; whether Helicobacter pylori or another cause should be considered; and how long to try any treatment before review.