Indigestion is a general term used to describe discomfort or a burning sensation in the upper abdomen.

Indigestion may be characterized by, or associated with other symptoms, such as early satiety (feeling full early into a meal), bloating or nausea. It is also called dyspepsia.

Bouts of indigestion often occur after a meal. However, medications and certain medical conditions can also cause indigestion. Indigestion usually passes within a few hours, sometimes without treatment. Some people experience chronic indigestion that is not caused by foods, medications or medical conditions. This type of indigestion is called functional or non-ulcer dyspepsia. It is believed that this type of indigestion may be caused by a problem in the muscle movement that propels food through the intestinal tract. Muscle problems may delay the emptying of the stomach and cause indigestion.

Patients with indigestion often experience other symptoms, such as vomiting, belching, flatulence, abdominal pain and abdominal cramping. Indigestion is often confused with heartburn, a burning sensation in the upper abdominal or chest area that is caused by acid reflux of the stomach contents. However, heartburn is a different symptom and may indicate a different problem. In some cases, people experiencing a heart attack may confuse their heart symptoms for indigestion.

People of any age, even children, can experience indigestion. Men and women are affected equally by indigestion. About 25 percent of the population experience indigestion at least once a year, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.