Indigestion
Key points
- Indigestion is a vague feeling of abdominal discomfort - possibly including a feeling of fullness, belching, bloating, and nausea.
- Indigestion is rarely a serious health problem, unless it is accompanied by other symptoms.
- Avoid excitement or exercise immediately after a meal.
- What to expect at your health care provider's office The medical history will be obtained, and a physical examination performed.
Alternative names
Dyspepsia; Uncomfortable fullness after meals
Definition
Indigestion is a vague feeling of abdominal discomfort - possibly including a feeling of fullness, belching, bloating, and nausea.
Considerations
Indigestion is rarely a serious health problem, unless it is accompanied by other symptoms.
Indigestion is a common problem. It may be triggered by eating particular foods or after drinking wine or carbonated drinks. It may also be caused by eating too fast or overeating. Some people may find that spicy foods, high-fiber foods, fatty foods, or too much caffeine can all aggravate this problem. Symptoms may be worsened by anxiety and depression.
Rarely, the discomfort of a heart attack is mistaken for indigestion.
Common Causes
- Overeating
- Eating too fast
- Significant caffeine intake
- Eating fatty or greasy foods
- Overindulgence in alcohol
- Tobacco smoking
- Eating spicy foods
- Emotional trauma or nervousness
- Cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder)
- Acute or chronic gastritis (inflammation of the stomach)
- Acute or chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
- Duodenal ulcer
- Gastric ulcer
- Drugs such as antibiotics, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Home Care
Allow time for leisurely meals. Chew food carefully and thoroughly. Avoid conflicts during meals. Avoid excitement or exercise immediately after a meal. Avoid chewing gum - it may cause air swallowing. A calm environment and rest may help relieve stress-related dyspepsia.
Avoid aspirin and NSAIDs (use acetaminophen instead). If you must take them, do so on a full stomach. Antacids may relieve indigestion. Stronger medications are available over-the-counter, such as ranitidine (Zantac). Your doctor may prescribe similar medications, or more potent ones such as omeprazole (Prilosec).
Call your health care provider if
- Symptoms last longer than 2 weeks.
- The pattern of indigestion symptoms changes noticeably.
- Abdominal pain persists longer than 6 hours.
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.