Indigestion causes pain or discomfort on the upper portion of your abdomen. This usually occurs after eating, as your body is digesting the food. Indigestion is caused by the acid in your stomach irritating or inflaming your digestive tract lining. It is also called dyspepsia and can be a symptom for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a disorder of the gallbladder, or ulcers. It can also be a sign that something more serious is going on, such as a heart attack or pancreatic carcinoma. 

What causes indigestion in humans?

Indigestion can be caused by a variety of factors, including your diet and the foods you consume. Some medications (aspirin and ibuprofen) or antibiotics used to treat or prevent bacterial infection can cause indigestion. This can also be a symptom for other conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gallbladder disease, anxiety, or stress. Indigestion is also a sign of pregnancy. Women who are pregnant often experience indigestion from around 27 weeks, due to the hormonal changes that can cause their baby to press on their stomach.

Indigestion can cause pain, burning, nausea or vomiting. This discomfort is often felt after eating something spicy or rich. It can also occur if you eat too fast or lie down immediately after eating. It is important to consult your doctor if you experience indigestion that does not improve with over-the counter medications or lifestyle changes. You can have your doctor review your medical history and perform a physical examination to determine the root cause of your indigestion. Your doctor will check your blood, stool or urine, as well as X-rays of the stomach and the oesophagus. Your doctor may recommend an endoscopy in some cases to examine your small intestine and stomach.

Your doctor may also prescribe treatment based on the cause of indigestion. If your symptoms are due to stomach acid, then your doctor may prescribe medications that reduce your stomach acid production. You can do this with antacids like calcium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate. Or H2 blockers, such as famotidine and nizatidine.

Consult your doctor about any symptoms that you experience. Consult your doctor if you experience chest pain, back pain, jaw pain, difficulty in swallowing, yellowing skin or eyes or a heavy feeling in your legs. These can all be signs of heart attacks. Get immediate medical attention if you experience chest pain and have redness or swelling around your neck and mouth. This could be a sign of stroke. Avoid exercise or excitement after a meal. Don’t lay down immediately after eating. If you suffer from heartburn, you should only use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen.

If you would like to speak with a Doctor who is an expert in the field or has Australian training, please contact us. Book an online Telehealth consultation. We are always here for you, 24/7. Contact info@clinicall.com.au.