How to treat indigestion

Indigestion, also called dyspepsia, can feel like upper-abdominal burning, fullness, bloating, nausea, or uncomfortable belching. It may follow a large or rich meal, alcohol, smoking, stress, or medicines that irritate the stomach. Repeated symptoms can also occur with acid reflux, gastritis, a peptic ulcer, gallstones, or Helicobacter pylori infection. A symptom page on [Indigestion](/symptoms/indigestion/) gives a broader overview.

Try eating slowly and choosing smaller portions. Notice whether spicy, fatty, acidic, or caffeinated foods bring symptoms on, then reduce the foods that consistently affect you. Stay upright after meals and avoid lying down soon after eating. A pharmacist or clinician can help you choose an antacid or another option; [Acid Reflux Medication](/treatments/medical-management/acid-reflux-medication/) may be relevant when reflux is part of the pattern. Do not stop prescribed medicine without advice. Persistent symptoms may need testing or treatment for an underlying cause such as [Gastritis](/conditions/gastritis/).

Arrange a medical review if symptoms keep returning, interfere with eating or sleep, or do not improve with simple changes. Seek urgent help for chest pressure, trouble breathing, fainting, vomiting blood, black stools, severe or worsening abdominal pain, or difficulty swallowing. These symptoms should not be assumed to be indigestion.

Ask what might be triggering the symptoms, whether any current medicine could irritate your stomach, and whether you need testing for Helicobacter pylori or an ulcer. Bring a short record of meals, timing, associated symptoms, and remedies tried.