Treatment for bloated stomach and acid indigestion

Indigestion can cause upper-abdominal discomfort, fullness, belching, nausea or burning behind the breastbone. Bloating may occur when gas, swallowed air or slower movement through the stomach makes the abdomen feel tight. Acid reflux, gastritis, a hiatus hernia, a peptic ulcer, gallstones or Helicobacter pylori infection can also contribute, so the pattern matters.

Try smaller meals, eat slowly and remain upright after eating. Notice whether rich, spicy or late meals, fizzy drinks, alcohol, caffeine or smoking worsen symptoms, then discuss useful adjustments with a clinician. A pharmacist or doctor may recommend an antacid, alginate or acid-reducing medicine; use it exactly as directed and check before combining products. Persistent or recurring symptoms may need an examination, medication review or testing for an underlying cause.

Arrange medical advice if symptoms keep returning, interfere with eating or sleep, or come with repeated vomiting, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, black stools or yellowing of the skin. Seek urgent help for severe or sudden abdominal pain, vomiting blood, faintness, or chest pain with sweating or breathlessness.

Ask which symptoms suggest reflux or another cause, whether your medicines could be irritating the stomach, how long to try treatment, and what changes should prompt a review.