Indigestion

Overview

Indigestion is a common feeling of discomfort, pain, or burning in the upper part of your belly (abdomen). It often happens after eating and is sometimes called dyspepsia.

Yes. Indigestion is extremely common. Many people experience it at some point in their lives.

It can affect people of any age, but it is more common in adults. Pregnant women also often have it, as can people who are overweight, stressed, or taking certain medications.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A burning pain or discomfort in the upper belly
• Feeling uncomfortably full after a meal
• Feeling full too quickly when eating
• Bloating or an uncomfortable swollen feeling in the tummy
• Frequent belching or burping
• Nausea or an urge to vomit
• A sour taste in the mouth

Symptoms in children

• Complaining of a painful or sore tummy, especially after meals
• Not wanting to eat as much as usual
• Fussiness or irritability around mealtimes
• Burping a lot or bringing up small amounts of food

Symptoms in older adults

• A dull ache or fullness in the upper belly rather than sharp pain
• Less appetite and feeling full easily
• Unexplained weight loss (though this is not typical for simple indigestion)
• Difficulty swallowing or the feeling that food gets stuck (needs attention)

Causes

Main causes

• Eating too much or eating too quickly
• High-fat or spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine, or carbonated drinks
• Too much alcohol or smoking
• Stress and anxiety
• Some medicines, such as certain pain relief medicines
• Underlying conditions such as acid reflux, gastritis, or stomach ulcers

Risk factors

• Being pregnant
• Being overweight
• Having a hiatus hernia
• Having a condition called gastritis, where the stomach lining is irritated
• Taking certain medications that can irritate the stomach
• Smoking or drinking alcohol regularly
• Being under a lot of stress

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have worrying symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, repeated vomiting, unexplained weight loss, or black stools — see a doctor the same day.
• You have severe belly pain that has come on quickly or does not go away.
• Your symptoms started after you began a new medicine and are troublesome.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your indigestion keeps coming back for more than two weeks
• If you are using settling remedies from a pharmacy regularly and find they are not helping
• If you are over 55 and have recently developed indigestion (always check with a doctor)
• If you have a family history of stomach cancer or oesophageal cancer and are worried about your symptoms

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, how often they happen, what makes them better or worse, and whether you have any other health conditions. They will also gently press on your belly to check for tenderness.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check for anaemia or signs of infection
• A breath test to check for Helicobacter pylori (a bacteria that can cause indigestion)
• An endoscopy, where a thin, flexible camera is passed into your stomach to look directly at the lining
• An ultrasound scan of your belly if the doctor wants to check organs such as the gallbladder or liver
• A stool sample to look for bleeding or infection

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor may first suggest simple lifestyle changes and a short trial of medicine to settle symptoms. If symptoms do not improve or if there are worrying signs, they may arrange tests. Many people do not need tests if their symptoms are typical of indigestion and settle with simple steps.

Treatment

Treatment for indigestion depends on what is causing it. The first steps are usually to change eating habits and reduce stress. If that is not enough, a doctor can recommend a medicine to reduce stomach acid or help your stomach empty more comfortably.

Self-care at home

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals and chew food slowly
• Avoid eating within two to three hours before lying down
• Keep a food diary to spot foods that trigger your symptoms
• Cut back on or stop alcohol and smoking
• Raise the head of your bed by about 10–15 centimetres with blocks or a wedge pillow
• Try to manage stress with relaxation exercises, breathing techniques, or a short walk

Medical treatments

If self-care is not enough, your doctor may suggest non-prescription or prescription medicines that reduce stomach acid, neutralise acid, or protect the stomach lining. They might also test for and treat an H. pylori infection if present. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medicine, especially if you are pregnant, taking other medicines, or have other health conditions.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for indigestion itself. However, if an underlying problem such as a hiatus hernia or severe acid reflux keeps causing symptoms and medicines do not help, your specialist may discuss surgical options with you.

Living with this condition

Living with indigestion is mostly about learning what triggers your symptoms and making small changes. A symptom diary can help you see patterns. Be patient with yourself — it may take a few weeks of changes before you feel better.

Lifestyle tips

• Eat at regular times and avoid skipping meals
• Choose lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains
• Limit foods that are high in fat, very spicy, or highly acidic
• Stay at a healthy weight with gentle exercise
• Finish meals at least two to three hours before bed
• Wear loose-fitting clothes around your waist to avoid extra pressure on your belly

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with smaller portions can make a big difference. Regular, gentle exercise such as walking or swimming helps with digestion and stress. Avoid vigorous exercise right after a meal, as it can make symptoms worse.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Frequent indigestion can be uncomfortable and stressful, and stress can make indigestion worse in return. If your symptoms are affecting your mood or sleep, talk to your doctor. Some people find relaxation techniques, talking therapies, or mindfulness helpful as part of their overall plan.

Prevention

Not all indigestion can be prevented, but you can lower your chances by avoiding known triggers, eating sensibly, staying hydrated, and managing stress.

Complications

If left untreated

• If indigestion is caused by a condition such as a stomach ulcer or acid reflux, and it is not treated, it can sometimes lead to bleeding or scarring in the stomach or food pipe.
• Long-standing acid reflux can increase the risk of changes to the lining of the food pipe, so persistent symptoms should be checked by a doctor.
• Severe or repeated vomiting can cause dehydration or a tear in the food pipe, though this is very rare.

Long-term outlook

For most people, indigestion is temporary and improves with simple lifestyle changes. If it keeps happening, modern treatments are effective and safe. With the right support, you can usually find a way to manage symptoms and protect your long-term health.

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