Indigestion

What is Indigestion?

Indigestion, also called dyspepsia, happens when your stomach has trouble digesting food, leading to an uncomfortable feeling of fullness, bloating, or nausea. Occasional indigestion is common, but frequent or severe symptoms could signal an underlying condition that needs medical attention.

Causes of Indigestion

Many things can trigger indigestion includes:

• Eating too much or too quickly
• Fatty, spicy, or greasy foods
• Alcohol or caffeinated drinks
• Smoking
• Stress or anxiety
• Lying down soon after eating
• Certain medications (e.g., painkillers, antibiotics)
• Medical conditions like gastritis, ulcers, gallstones, or thyroid issues

Symptoms of Indigestion

Indigestion can cause:

• Bloating or feeling uncomfortably full
• Nausea or vomiting
• Burping or excessive gas
• Heartburn or acid taste in your mouth
• Abdominal pain or burning sensation
• Gurgling sounds in your stomach

How to prevent Indigestion

You can reduce your risk of indigestion by:

• Eating smaller meals and chewing food slowly
• Avoiding late-night or heavy meals
• Limiting fatty, spicy, or acidic foods
• Reducing alcohol and caffeine intake
• Staying upright for at least an hour after meals
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques
• Quitting smoking

How to treat Indigestion

Most cases of indigestion can be relieved with:

• Antacids (e.g., Gaviscon, Rennie) – neutralise stomach acid to relieve discomfort.
• Alginates – form a protective layer to reduce acid reflux.
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (for longer-term symptoms under doctor’s advice).

Lifestyle measures like regular exercise, meal scheduling, and staying hydrated also help keep digestion smooth.

When to see a doctor about Indigestion

See your GP if you experience:

• Severe or persistent indigestion
• Difficulty swallowing or painful swallowing
• Blood in vomit or stools
• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe chest pain, sweating, or breathlessness

These could signal a more serious condition that needs prompt medical attention.