INDIGESTION

Indigestion, also called upset stomach, is a discomfort or burning feeling in the upper abdomen, which may be felt after eating. The discomfort may include nausea, bloating, belching, and sometimes vomiting. Indigestion is common in adults, but rarely a serious health problem. Usually indigestion is from eating too much, eating too fast or eating when stressed. Some medications, foods, or drinking alcohol may cause indigestion. Even chewing gum can cause indigestion in some people.

Since a serious disease does not usually cause indigestion, it can often be treated by avoiding foods, drinks, and behavior that cause it. Avoid foods that may cause indigestion, like high fat or spicy foods, and beverages, such as wine, carbonated drinks, or caffeinated drinks. Avoid aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, as these drugs are known to cause an upset stomach. If NSAIDs must be taken, always take them with food. Do not smoke, especially before eating. Do not exercise on a full stomach. Avoid stressful situations before or while eating. Allow enough time for eating without rushing and chew food thoroughly. Making these lifestyle changes may help reduce the frequency of indigestion.

Occasionally, some people may have indigestion that is not related to any behavior, food, or drink that would normally cause indigestion. Medical tests may be necessary to see if there is another cause for the indigestion. If no cause can be found, medication may be recommended.

Most of the time indigestion is not caused by anything serious. However, a heart attack can sometimes start out with the symptoms of indigestion. Usually there may be other symptoms that go along with a heart attack, such as jaw, arm, or shoulder pain, chest or back pain, profuse sweating, and anxiety or a feeling of impending doom. See a healthcare provider when:

the pattern of indigestion changes
symptoms last longer than 2 weeks
abdominal pain lasts for more than 6 hours
unexplained weight loss occurs
vomiting blood or passing blood in the stool
yellow-looking skin or eyes or
indigestion occurs that is unrelated to eating

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File DIGE4418.rf2 VRS# 4418 Data Version 7.0