Symptoms of heartburn and indigestion

Indigestion describes discomfort in the upper abdomen, often with early fullness, bloating, belching, or nausea. Heartburn is a burning sensation caused by stomach contents moving into the oesophagus. Acid reflux, gastritis, a hiatus hernia, gallstones, peptic ulcer, or Helicobacter pylori infection can produce overlapping symptoms. Medicines, alcohol, large meals, and stress may also affect digestion. Symptoms alone cannot identify the cause, particularly when pain is new or persistent.

Record when symptoms occur, what you ate, and whether pain improves or worsens with food. Try slower eating, smaller portions, and avoiding a meal close to bedtime. Do not stop prescribed medicines without advice, even if you suspect they irritate your stomach. A clinician can decide whether testing, a medicine review, or a trial of acid reflux medication is suitable.

Seek emergency help for severe chest pain, breathlessness, fainting, vomiting blood, or black stools. Arrange prompt review for difficulty swallowing, persistent vomiting, yellowing of the skin or eyes, unexplained weight loss, anaemia symptoms, or pain that is severe, recurrent, or progressively changing. Upper abdominal pain after a rich meal can have several causes and should not be self-diagnosed.

Ask whether your symptoms sound more like reflux, indigestion, or another stomach or gallbladder problem. Ask whether you need testing for Helicobacter pylori, a medicine review, or treatment, and which warning signs should bring you back sooner.