Indigestion and a Burning Stomach

Burning may be felt in the upper abdomen or behind the breastbone. Acid reflux can bring a sour taste, burping or fluid rising into the throat, especially after meals or when lying down. Gastritis can cause upper-abdominal discomfort and nausea. A hiatus hernia, peptic ulcer or Helicobacter pylori infection can also be associated with indigestion and burning.

The sensation can be worsened by large meals, spicy or fatty foods, alcohol, smoking, stress or medicines that irritate the stomach. Location matters: chest pressure, breathlessness or pain spreading to the arm or jaw should not be assumed to be indigestion.

Eat smaller portions, slow down at meals and stay upright after eating. Avoid your known triggers and do not lie down soon after a meal. If symptoms occur at night, ask a clinician or pharmacist about suitable measures rather than raising medication doses on your own.

A pharmacist can discuss acid reflux medication and check for interactions. Tell them if you are pregnant, taking regular medicines, have kidney or liver disease, or have needed treatment repeatedly. A clinician should review symptoms that return after self-care.

Arrange an appointment for frequent burning, symptoms that interfere with sleep, trouble swallowing, repeated vomiting, anaemia symptoms or unexplained weight loss. Seek urgent care for chest pressure, pain spreading to the arm or jaw, difficulty breathing, fainting, vomiting blood, black stools or sudden severe abdominal pain.

Is the burning more consistent with reflux or stomach irritation? Could any medicine be contributing? Do I need testing for an ulcer or infection, and how long should I try self-care before review?