Indigestion has recently started to affect me - should I be worried?

Indigestion can strike at any time and can be caused by a change in diet, excessive stress or other triggers. Don’t worry though - indigestion is nothing to be unduly concerned about; but if the discomfort from indigestion persists for extended periods of time, please consult a doctor.

What are the telltale signs of indigestion?

The feeling of indigestion can range from discomfort and abdominal pain to constipation and diarrhoea. Other symptoms include acid reflux, bloating, excessive gas, nausea or constipation.

What foods can cause indigestion?

Several factors are in play, such as overeating, or eating too quickly. Fatty, greasy or spicy foods can be culprits; caffeine, alcohol, chocolate or carbonated beverages are also known triggers.

What does it mean if I get indigestion regularly?

Indigestion can range from a burning pain behind the breastbone to discomfort in your upper abdomen. You might feel bloated or excessively full or sick for short periods of time. It is very rare that indigestion is indicative of a more serious illness. However, if your indigestion bothers you regularly -- and intensifies -- book an appointment with your doctor.

Guide to indigestion symptoms, causes, treatment

Causes &
Symptoms

Indigestion is completely normal and most people will certainly experience indigestion in some form throughout their lives.

Of course, some cases can be more severe than others and it’s possible to have several cases a year - or even several cases a day.

Indigestion during pregnancy is also very common: the body’s physical changes affect hormone production. Read more about this occurrence on our pregnancy page.

Symptoms of Indigestion

The following are signs of indigestion:

A dull ache behind the ribs
A rumbling or gurgling stomach
Knots in your stomach or cramps
An uncomfortable feeling after eating
A burning feeling in your belly

So what causes indigestion?

Indigestion - also called dyspepsia or upset stomach - is often caused by excess acid coming into contact with the sensitive lining of the stomach or oesophagus - causing soreness and swelling. This can produce an uncomfortable pain that may feel like a burning sensation in your stomach - especially if your digestive lining is sensitive.

Indigestion is triggered by different things - and not everyone is the same.

Some common causes of indigestion are:

Eating heavy meals
Eating too quickly
Fatty or spicy foods
Stress and anxiety
Drinking alcohol

FAQs

: Indigestion can strike at any time and can be caused by a change in diet, excessive stress or other triggers. Don’t worry though - indigestion is nothing to be unduly concerned about; but if the discomfort from indigestion persists for extended periods of time, please consult a doctor.
: The feeling of indigestion can range from discomfort and abdominal pain to constipation and diarrhoea. Other symptoms include acid reflux, bloating, excessive gas, nausea or constipation.
: Several factors are in play, such as overeating, or eating too quickly. Fatty, greasy or spicy foods can be culprits; caffeine, alcohol, chocolate or carbonated beverages are also known triggers.

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Treatment

The good news is that Gaviscon is here to help.

Gaviscon Double Action provides relief from indigestion and helps you take your life off pause.10-20ml (two to four 5ml spoonfuls) after meals and at bedtime, up to four times a day.

Pregnant? Look no further than Gaviscon Advance for help.

Medicines can affect the unborn baby. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine during pregnancy. Always read the label.

All information presented is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. If symptoms are severe or prolonged you should consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Products we recommend

Double Action Liquid

Gaviscon Double Action Liquid

Dual-action formula

Targets heartburn and indigestion instantly

Gets to work in seconds

Lasts up to 4 hours

View Gaviscon Double Action Liquid

Frequent Sufferers

Repeatedly suffering from indigestion? Don’t suffer in silence.

Products we recommend

Guardium Tablets

Protective treatment for frequent sufferers

Treats heartburn and acid reflux

Lasts up to 24 hours

2-3 days of treatment might be required for symptom relief

View Guardium Tablets

Gaviscon Advance Liquid

Gaviscon Advance Liquid

Suitable for pregnant mothers ‡

Extra strength formula

Targets heartburn and indigestion instantly

Long lasting relief of acid reflux (up to 4 hours)

View Gaviscon Advance Liquid

FAQs

: Indigestion can range from a burning pain behind the breastbone to discomfort in your upper abdomen. You might feel bloated or excessively full or sick for short periods of time. It is very rare that indigestion is indicative of a more serious illness. However, if your indigestion bothers you regularly -- and intensifies -- book an appointment with your doctor.

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