What should you know about really bad indigestion?

Indigestion, also called dyspepsia, describes discomfort in the upper abdomen rather than a single disease. It may follow a large or rich meal, eating quickly, alcohol, smoking, stress, or medicines that irritate the stomach. Reflux can add a sour taste or burning behind the breastbone. Other possible causes include gastritis, a peptic ulcer, Helicobacter pylori infection, gallstones, or a hiatus hernia. A clinician may ask when the pain began, whether it relates to food, and whether you have vomiting, difficulty swallowing, weight loss, or dark stools.

The feeling can overlap with heart and other urgent problems. Do not assume intense upper-body discomfort is indigestion when it is new, unusual, or accompanied by breathing trouble or sweating.

Stop eating for a short while if food worsens the discomfort, then choose small, bland meals when you feel able. Sip water, avoid alcohol and smoking, and limit foods that reliably trigger burning or bloating. Stay upright after eating; raising the head of your bed may help night-time reflux. Check medicine labels and ask a pharmacist before using an antacid or acid-reducing product, especially if you are pregnant, have kidney disease, or take regular medicines. If symptoms keep returning, arrange a medical review rather than repeatedly self-treating.

Seek emergency help now for chest pressure or pain, pain spreading to the arm, jaw, back, or shoulder, shortness of breath, fainting, cold sweating, or sudden severe illness. Get urgent medical advice for vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, repeated vomiting, severe or worsening abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes, fever with pain, or trouble swallowing. Book a prompt appointment if indigestion persists, repeatedly returns, starts after a new medicine, or comes with unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, or anaemia symptoms such as unusual tiredness.

Ask what may be causing the symptoms and whether you need testing for reflux, Helicobacter pylori, or an ulcer. Mention every medicine and supplement you use, the foods or activities that trigger symptoms, and any change in bowel movements. Ask which treatment is suitable for you, how long to try it, and which warning signs should bring you back sooner.