Indigestion

Indigestion can feel like discomfort, burning, fullness, bloating, or nausea after eating. Learn common triggers, simple changes that may help, and the warning signs that need medical assessment.

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Quick Reference Facts

System FocusGastrointestinal
Clinical CharacterSubjective patient manifestation
Diagnostic UrgencyMonitor for red flag progress

Visual guide

Understanding indigestion
Noticing after a meal
Preparing your questions

In simple words

Indigestion is discomfort in the upper tummy or chest that can include fullness, burning, bloating, nausea, or burping after eating.

Clinical Meaning

It is common and may be linked to reflux, certain foods or drinks, medicines, or stomach irritation. Persistent symptoms should be assessed rather than self-diagnosed.

Common Causes

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Gastritis or peptic ulcer disease
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • Dietary intolerance or food allergies

Clinical Red Flags

Seek urgent medical attention at an emergency department or primary care clinic if you present with any of the following symptoms:

  • Unexplained weight loss or persistent vomiting
  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or gastrointestinal bleeding (melena)
  • Severe overnight abdominal pain waking the patient

Lifestyle & Diet Support

Try smaller meals, avoid lying down soon after eating, and notice whether particular foods, drinks, or medicines trigger symptoms. A pharmacist can advise on suitable short-term treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Triggers vary but can include large or fatty meals, alcohol, caffeine, smoking, stress, and some medicines. Keeping a short food-and-symptom note can help identify a pattern.
Get medical advice for difficulty swallowing, repeated vomiting, unexplained weight loss, blood in vomit or stools, black stools, severe pain, or symptoms that keep returning despite self-care.
Yes. Reflux, ulcers, gallbladder problems, some medicines, and other conditions can cause similar symptoms. A clinician can help assess persistent or worrying symptoms.
Clinical & academic detailShow detail

Differential Diagnosis Matrix

Differential Diagnosis Overview

Exclude gallstones, chronic pancreatitis, celiac disease, and acute surgical abdomen conditions.

Reference Citations & Evidence Sources

Clinical Guidelines & Consensus Statements
  • CIT-0017NICE. "Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and dyspepsia in adults: investigation and management." NICE Clinical Guideline CG184 (2014).
  • CIT-0018NICE. "Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Adults: Diagnosis and Management." NICE Guideline CG61 (2008).
Clinical Reviews & Textbooks
  • CIT-0022Jethwani N.. "Internal Clinical Review Note: Standard Reference Values and Homeopathic Therapeutic Mappings for Lab Diagnostics." Homeo Healthcare Internal Review Series (2026).

Clinical Connections

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