Indigestion, Bloating and Stomach Pain

Indigestion usually describes discomfort in the upper abdomen, while bloating can feel like pressure or fullness and stomach pain can occur in different areas. Eating quickly, swallowing air, a large meal, constipation or sensitivity to a food may link these symptoms. Reflux or gastritis may add burning, nausea or belching.

Food poisoning and gastroenteritis often cause a more sudden illness with diarrhoea or vomiting. Coeliac disease, Crohn's disease or diverticular disease may be considered when symptoms recur with bowel changes, weight loss, fever or blood in stool. Gallstones can cause upper abdominal pain, especially after meals. A symptom combination does not establish any one diagnosis.

For mild symptoms, try slower meals, smaller portions and gentle movement. Reduce fizzy drinks and note foods that reliably bring on discomfort rather than removing many foods at once. Treat constipation with fluids and gradual fibre changes if appropriate. Keep a record of pain location, bloating, stool changes, meals and any vomiting.

Do not take leftover antibiotics or start a restrictive diet without advice. A clinician can decide whether examination, blood tests or other assessment is appropriate, particularly when symptoms keep returning.

Get prompt medical advice for recurring pain, ongoing bloating, persistent diarrhoea, fever, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, reduced appetite or unexplained weight loss. Seek urgent care for sudden severe pain, a swollen and tender abdomen, blood or black stool, vomiting blood, fainting or breathing difficulty.

Where is the pain, and does it follow meals or bowel movements? Could a food intolerance, reflux or bowel condition explain the pattern? Which symptoms mean I should seek urgent help?