Indigestion is discomfort or a burning sensation in the upper abdomen. It may be accompanied by a wide variety of symptoms, such as bloating or nausea. Indigestion is also called dyspepsia.

Indigestion may be caused by numerous factors, including eating too fast or too much, medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or medical conditions such as gastritis and pregnancy. Some people experience chronic indigestion that is not caused by these factors. This type of indigestion is called functional or non-ulcer dyspepsia.

Indigestion is often confused with heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest. However, they are different symptoms that may indicate different disorders.

About 25 percent of the population experiences indigestion at least once a year, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.

There are a number of prevention methods for indigestion, including avoiding foods that cause indigestion and limiting stress. Some common medications used to treat indigestion include antacids, proton pump inhibitors and prokinetics.

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.

There are many possible causes of indigestion. They include:

• Foods and beverages. Certain types of foods, such as spicy, greasy or fatty foods, can lead to indigestion. Alcoholic, caffeinated or carbonated beverages may also contribute to indigestion. It can also be caused by eating too quickly or eating too much. Swallowing excessive air while eating can also cause indigestion.
  
  
• Food intolerances or allergies. People with intolerances to certain substances, such as lactose in dairy products or gluten in grains, may experience indigestion after consuming these products.
  
  
• Smoking. Tobacco smoking may cause indigestion.
  
  
• Medications. Certain types of medications, such as antibiotics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can irritate the stomach and cause indigestion.
  
  
• Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Many disorders that affect the GI tract cause indigestion, including:
  
  
• • Gastritis. Inflammation or irritation of the stomach lining. Both acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) gastritis can cause indigestion.
    
    
  • Peptic ulcer. An open sore, or ulcer, in the lining of the esophagus, stomach or duodenum.
    
    

    

  • Infection. Stomach infections caused by the microorganism Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) can sometimes lead to gastritis or ulcers, both of which may lead to indigestion.
    
    
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). A backflow of acid from the stomach into the esophagus.
    
    

    

  • Motility disorders. People who experience delayed emptying of the stomach after eating frequently experience indigestion.
    
    
  • Pancreatitis. Inflammation or irritation of the pancreas, often due to gallstones or alcohol abuse.
    
    

    

  • Gallstones. Hard, stone-like concretions formed from substances in bile such as cholesterol or bilirubin that develop in the gallbladder or bile ducts.
    
    

    

  • Cholecystitis. Inflammation of the gallbladder that causes episodes of severe abdominal pain.
    
    
  • Cancer. Certain types of gastrointestinal cancer, including esophageal cancer and pancreatic cancer, may cause indigestion.
    
    
• Systemic conditions. Certain conditions, such as pregnancy or kidney failure, can cause indigestion.
  
  
• Anxiety or emotional trauma. These are possible causes of indigestion.
  
  
• Unidentifiable factors. The cause of some indigestion is unknown. This is called functional (nonulcer) dyspepsia.

Indigestion often goes away within a few hours without treatment. However, it can often be prevented or treated by making the following lifestyle modifications:

• Avoid foods, such as fatty or spicy foods, that trigger bouts of indigestion. Carbonated beverages, caffeine and alcohol can also cause indigestion.
  
  
• Eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day. Eat slowly and chew thoroughly. Restrict intake of fluids during meals. To avoid swallowing excessive air, do not chew with the mouth open or talk while eating.
  
  
• Exercise regularly. Getting 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day improves digestion. However, exercising immediately after eating is not advised.
  
  
• Limit stress. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and yoga, can help relieve stress.
  
  
• Maintain a healthy body weight. Excess weight can increase pressure on the abdomen and make indigestion worse.

Patients whose indigestion results from the use of certain medications (e.g., nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) may choose to explore alternate treatment options with their physician. In addition, research shows that taking an acid-reducing drug in combination with such medications may help reduce symptoms of indigestion in some individuals.

Depending on their cause, some cases of indigestion may be treated with medications, including:

• Antacids. Medications that work by neutralizing stomach acid. They are available without a prescription.
  
  
• Acid blockers. Medications that work by decreasing the amount of acid the stomach produces. They are available without a prescription.
  
  
• Proton pump inhibitors. Medications that reduce the amount of stomach acid by inhibiting its production. They are available with and without a prescription.
  
  
• Prokinetics. Prescription medications that act on the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract to help move food through the digestive system.
  
  

  

• Tegaserod (Zelnorm) was recently removed from the market due to adverse cardiovascular side effects.  However, metoclopropamide may still be used to treat indigestion despite its frequent side effects.
  
  
• Antispasmodics. Medications that work by relaxing the smooth muscles in the intestines. They are available by prescription.
  
  
• Acid suppressors. Medications to help protect the tissues that line the stomach and small intestine. They are available by prescription.
  
  
• Low-dose antidepressants.  In a few cases, tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (another type of antidepressant) are sometimes prescribed in low doses to treat indigestion. They work by inhibiting the activity of neurons that control the intestines.
  
  
• Antibiotics. Indigestion caused by the microorganism Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) may be treated with prescription antibiotics.

Researchers are also currently investigating other medications that may help relieve symptoms of indigestion.

Most types of indigestion can be treated at home. However, patients should consult a physician if:

• Symptoms are persistent or severe.
  
  
• Symptoms are accompanied by weight loss, appetite loss or vomiting.
  
  
• Stools are black or bloody.
  
  
• Severe pain is experienced in the upper right abdomen. This may indicate another serious condition, such as gallstones or pancreatitis.
  
  
• Symptoms are accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating or pain in the jaw, neck or arm. These symptoms may indicate a heart attack.
  
  
• Discomfort is experienced that is unrelated to eating.

Preparing questions in advance can help patients to have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following indigestion-related questions:

1. How does indigestion differ from heartburn?
   
   
2. What do you suspect is causing my indigestion?
   
   
3. Do you recommend testing to rule out any conditions that may be causing my indigestion?
   
   
4. Is it possible that some medications I am taking could be causing or contributing to my indigestion? Are there any alternatives available?
   
   
5. Are there any over-the-counter or prescription medications that may relieve my indigestion?
   
   
6. Are there any over-the-counter medications I should avoid?
   
   
7. Are there any treatment options other than medication that may be appropriate for me?
   
   
8. What lifestyle changes would you recommend to ease my indigestion symptoms?
   
   
9. During treatment, are there any side effects or changes that you want me to report to you immediately?