Indigestion

Alternative names:

dyspepsia; uncomfortable fullness after meals

Definition:

A vague feeling of abdominal discomfort; possibly may include a feeling of fullness, belching, bloating, and nausea.

Considerations:

Indigestion is rarely a serious health problem unless accompanied by other symptoms.

Indigestion is a common problem. It may be triggered by eating particular foods or after drinking wine or carbonated drinks. It may also be caused by eating too fast or overeating. Some people may find that spicy foods, high-fiber foods, fatty foods, or too much caffeine can all aggravate this problem. Symptoms may be worsened by anxiety and depression.

Rarely, the discomfort of a heart attack is mistaken for indigestion. However, usually there are other symptoms along with the abdominal discomfort if it is actually a heart attack.

Common causes:

• overeating
• eating too fast
• eating fatty or greasy foods
• overindulgence in alcohol
• eating spicy foods
• emotional trauma or nervousness
• acute gastritis
• chronic cholecystitis
• chronic gastritis
• chronic pancreatitis
• duodenal ulcer
• gastric ulcer
• drugs such as antibiotics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Note: There may be other causes of indigestion. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for indigestion, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.