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Indigestion
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Symptoms

Indigestion

Indigestion is a common feeling of discomfort or burning in the upper abdomen that can often be managed by avoiding triggers, though persistent symptoms may require medical evaluation.

Overview

Nearly everyone has had indigestion at one time. It's a feeling of discomfort or a burning feeling in your upper abdomen. You may have heartburn or belch and feel bloated. You may also feel nauseated, or even throw up.

Causes

You might get indigestion from eating too much or too fast, eating high-fat foods, or eating when you're stressed. Smoking, drinking too much alcohol, using some medicines, being tired, and having ongoing stress can also cause indigestion or make it worse. Sometimes the cause is a problem with the digestive tract, like an ulcer or GERD.

Treatment and Management

Avoiding foods and situations that seem to cause it may help. Because indigestion can be a sign of a more serious problem, see your health care provider if it lasts for more than two weeks or if you have severe pain or other symptoms. Your health care provider may use x-rays, lab tests, and an upper endoscopy to diagnose the cause. You may need medicines to treat the symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

While triggers vary from person to person, common culprits include high-fat and fried foods, which take longer to digest and can relax the lower esophageal sphincter. Spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, and chocolate are also frequent triggers for many individuals. Caffeinated beverages, alcohol, and carbonated drinks can increase stomach acid production and cause bloating. Eating large meals or eating too quickly can also overwhelm the digestive system. Keeping a food and symptom diary for two weeks can help you identify your personal triggers so you can avoid them proactively.
ntacids are generally safe for occasional, short-term use to neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief. However, using them daily or for more than two weeks without medical supervision is not recommended. Long-term use can lead to side effects such as diarrhea or constipation, and in some cases, it may mask the symptoms of a more serious underlying condition like an ulcer or gastric cancer. If you find yourself needing antacids more than twice a week, it is important to consult a healthcare provider to investigate the root cause and discuss alternative treatments like H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors.
Indigestion, or dyspepsia, is a general term for discomfort in the upper abdomen, including bloating, fullness, and early satiety. Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), specifically involves the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, causing heartburn and a sour taste. While they are distinct conditions, they often overlap. The same factors that cause indigestion, such as eating too quickly or consuming large meals, can also increase pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to reflux. Conversely, chronic reflux can irritate the stomach lining, contributing to feelings of indigestion. Managing both often involves similar lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods and elevating the head of the bed.
The gut and the brain are closely connected through the gut-brain axis. When you are stressed or anxious, your body releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can slow down digestion and increase stomach acid production. This can lead to a feeling of fullness, bloating, or nausea, even if you have not eaten. Stress can also make you more sensitive to normal digestive sensations, amplifying the perception of discomfort. Managing stress through techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or regular exercise can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of indigestion episodes.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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