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Most people have indigestion (dyspepsia) at some point. Usually, it's not a sign of anything more serious and you can treat it yourself.
Indigestion can be felt in different ways.
You can have the following symptoms after eating or drinking:
Stomach ache or back pain are usually not symptoms of indigestion. If you have those you might be constipated.
There's usually no need to see a GP about indigestion. There are some things you can do at home.
cut down on tea, coffee, cola or alcohol
raise your head and shoulders up when in bed – this can stop stomach acid coming up while you sleep
lose weight if you're overweight
A pharmacist can recommend medicines to ease the burning feeling or pain that can come with indigestion.
Medicines that can help with indigestion include:
Some indigestion medicines are best to take after eating as their effects last longer. Check the information leaflet that comes with the medicines for more information.
Pregnant women often get indigestion. It's very common from 27 weeks onwards.
It can be caused by hormonal changes and the growing baby pressing against the stomach.
A pharmacist can help with uncomfortable feelings or pain. They can recommend the best medicines to use when you're pregnant.
These symptoms can be a sign of something more serious.
Indigestion is often caused by acid from your stomach irritating your stomach lining or throat. This is called acid reflux.
This can be caused or made worse by:
Indigestion can also be caused by an open sore in your stomach lining (stomach ulcer). Less often, it can be a sign of something more serious such as stomach cancer.
