Indigestion

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD medical weight loss NYC and sleep center NYC

Indigestion
Synonyms	Dyspepsia
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Upper abdominal pain, bloating, belching, nausea
Complications	Gastroesophageal reflux disease, peptic ulcer disease
Onset	Any age
Duration	Varies
Types	N/A
Causes	Overeating, eating too quickly, fatty or greasy foods, stress, smoking, alcohol
Risks	Obesity, pregnancy, anxiety, depression
Diagnosis	Medical history, physical examination, endoscopy, ultrasound
Differential diagnosis	Heart attack, gallstones, pancreatitis, stomach cancer
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Dietary changes, antacids, proton pump inhibitors, H2 receptor antagonists
Medication	Antacids, proton pump inhibitors, H2 receptor antagonists
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common
Deaths	Rare

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is a common condition that affects the digestive system. It is characterized by discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, often accompanied by bloating, belching, nausea, or a feeling of fullness. Indigestion can be a symptom of an underlying problem, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, or gallbladder disease.

Causes

Indigestion can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Overeating or eating too quickly
• Consuming fatty, greasy, or spicy foods
• Drinking too much caffeine, alcohol, or carbonated beverages
• Smoking
• Stress and anxiety
• Certain medications, such as NSAIDs or antibiotics
• Medical conditions like GERD, peptic ulcers, or gastroparesis

Symptoms

The symptoms of indigestion can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

• A burning sensation or discomfort in the upper abdomen
• Bloating
• Belching and gas
• Nausea and vomiting
• An acidic taste in the mouth
• A feeling of fullness during or after a meal

Diagnosis

To diagnose indigestion, a healthcare provider will typically:

• Review the patient's medical history and symptoms
• Perform a physical examination
• Order tests such as blood tests, endoscopy, or ultrasound to rule out other conditions

Treatment

Treatment for indigestion depends on the underlying cause. Common treatments include:

• Lifestyle changes, such as eating smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods, and reducing stress
• Over-the-counter medications like antacids, H2-receptor antagonists, or proton pump inhibitors
• Prescription medications for more severe cases
• Treating any underlying medical conditions

Prevention

Preventing indigestion involves making lifestyle changes, such as:

• Eating smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoiding foods and drinks that trigger symptoms
• Reducing stress through relaxation techniques
• Quitting smoking
• Limiting alcohol and caffeine intake

See Also

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Gallbladder disease
• Gastroparesis