Symptoms of indigestion

Indigestion describes symptoms from the upper digestive tract rather than one single disease. It may follow a large or rich meal, alcohol, smoking, stress or medicines that irritate the stomach. Acid reflux, gastritis, a hiatus hernia, peptic ulcer, gallstones or Helicobacter pylori infection can also be involved. Heart-related pain can sometimes feel like indigestion, so the location, timing and associated symptoms matter.

Try smaller meals, eat slowly and remain upright after eating. Notice whether particular foods, alcohol, smoking or anti-inflammatory pain medicines trigger symptoms. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether an antacid or acid-reducing treatment is suitable, especially if you take other medicines, are pregnant or have a long-term condition. Persistent or recurrent symptoms deserve a medical review.

Get urgent help for chest pressure, sweating, breathlessness, fainting, vomiting blood, black stools, severe sudden abdominal pain or difficulty swallowing. Arrange prompt medical review for ongoing vomiting, unintentional weight loss, anaemia symptoms, or indigestion that keeps returning.

Ask whether your symptoms fit reflux or another digestive condition, whether testing for Helicobacter pylori is appropriate, which medicines may irritate your stomach, and how long to try a treatment before review.