Everything you Need to Know …and More
Essential Information about…Indigestion Pain and Dyspepsia
What is Indigestion Pain and Dyspepsia?
Indigestion is pain or discomfort after eating, wile your stomach is digesting.
Indigestion can be felt as discomfort in your stomach (dyspepsia) or as a burning pain in the chest (heartburn).Â
Many people are affected by indigestion and in most cases it is mild and only happens occasionally.
Indigestion Pain and Dyspepsia Symptoms
These symptoms can either be experienced together or on their own and more often than not are felt soon after eating or drinking:
- Stomach pain
- Feeling full or bloated
- Feeling sick
- Belching
- Gas
- Only being able to eat a little
- Bringing up food or fluids into your throat
Causes of Indigestion Pain and Dyspepsia
Indigestion could be related to a problem with the muscles in your stomach where normal muscle changes after eating might not happen as they should. This allows acid from the stomach to come into contact with the protective lining of the digestive system (mucosa). Â
The lining can be broken down by the acid which becomes inflamed and irritated. Some people may have inflammation of their digestive system which is caused when the mucosa is especially sensitive (see Oesophagitis).
In most cases, indigestion happens after eating or drinking but can also be a result of smoking, drinking alcohol, pregnancy, stress or certain medications.
Treatment of Indigestion and Dyspepsia
Occasional indigestion is common and not serious. You can treat it by taking over the counter medications such as antacids. Changes to your diet and lifestyle can help too.Â
However, if you have frequent indigestion there might be more going on, such as reflux, or something more complex. In rare cases there maybe an underlying cause to the symptoms you experience which must be checked by a doctor.
If you experience indigestion frequently for 3 weeks or more or your symptoms are caused by specific medication you are taking, please see your GP.
