Symptoms of indigestion and gas

Gas develops when swallowed air or digestion leaves air in the gut. Indigestion affects the upper digestive tract and may accompany reflux, stomach irritation or delayed emptying. Eating quickly, fizzy drinks, chewing gum, constipation, food intolerance and a change in gut bacteria can increase bloating or wind. Gallstones, gastritis, peptic ulcer, hiatus hernia or Helicobacter pylori infection are other possible explanations when symptoms persist.

Eat slowly, chew thoroughly and reduce fizzy drinks while you observe your symptoms. Gentle movement may help gas pass; avoid lying down soon after a meal. Keep a food and symptom diary rather than removing many foods at once. A pharmacist can discuss suitable options, but check first if you are pregnant, take regular medicines or have kidney, liver or digestive disease.

Seek urgent help for severe or rapidly worsening pain, a rigid swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, blood in vomit or stools, chest pressure, breathlessness or fainting. Arrange a medical review for persistent bloating, a lasting change in bowel habit, swallowing difficulty or unexplained weight loss.

Ask whether reflux, constipation, intolerance or another condition could explain the pattern, whether Helicobacter pylori testing is useful, and which dietary or medicine changes can be tried safely.