Indigestion (Dyspepsia)

A man wearing a red and blue plaid shirt is holding his stomach with his hand, indicating abdominal pain

Indigestion, also called dyspepsia or upset stomach, is a common condition and affects people of all ages. It is characterized by gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms that typically occur together, including:

  • A burning pain in your upper abdomen
  • Feeling full while eating a meal
  • Feeling overly full after eating a meal

Dyspepsia may happen once in a while for some, while others experience regular or chronic episodes of indigestion for a few weeks or months.

Indigestion is not the same as heartburn or GERD. However, indigestion may be a sign of certain digestive tract diseases or conditions, including GERD.

Indigestion can occur for many reasons. Smoking cigarettes and consuming certain foods, medications, and alcohol can all contribute to dyspepsia. Indigestion can be a symptom of stress. Some cases of dyspepsia can resolve on their own without treatment. If persistent, indigestion may also be relieved with medications, lifestyle changes, and by treating any underlying medical conditions.

Dyspepsia can occur for many reasons, such as:

  • Eating too fast
  • Eating too much
  • Eating or drinking certain foods or beverages (spicy, fatty, or greasy foods; coffee or caffeine; carbonated drinks)
  • Smoking
  • Drinking alcohol
  • Certain medications (antibiotics, steroids, thyroid medications, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
  • Anxiety and stress

In some cases, indigestion may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, including GERD, peptic ulcer disease, H. pylori bacterial infection, irritable bowel disease, gastroparesis, stomach cancer, and inflammation of the stomach, gallbladder, or pancreas.

Symptoms of indigestion typically include:

  • A burning feeling in your stomach or upper abdomen
  • Feeling full while eating and uncomfortably full after eating
  • Gas and bloating
  • Nausea
  • Stomach growling

Your doctor will first review your medical history and conduct a physical examination. Be sure to tell them about your symptoms.

Your doctor may order blood tests and imaging tests to diagnose diseases and conditions that may be causing your indigestion. Blood tests, stool tests, and urea breath tests can diagnose H. pylori infection, which can cause peptic ulcers.

Your doctor may perform an upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy to diagnose GERD, peptic ulcers, gastritis, or stomach cancer. Imaging tests such as X-ray, CT scan, or ultrasound may be used to diagnose other conditions.

Sometimes, indigestion will resolve without treatment from a doctor. Some cases respond to over-the-counter medications such as antacids, H2 blockers (Zantac®, Tagamet®, Pepcid AC®), or proton pump inhibitors (PPI) (Prilosec®, Prevacid®, Nexium®).

Your doctor can also prescribe medications to treat dyspepsia or an underlying medical condition such as H. pylori. To prevent indigestion, you can avoid the foods and drinks that cause it, or make lifestyle changes such as:

  • Chewing your food completely
  • Not exercising right after eating
  • Avoiding nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Stopping smoking
  • Minimizing stress
  • Avoiding eating late at night
  • Waiting 2 to 3 hours after eating before you lie down

Functional Indigestion Treatment in Austin, TX

Indigestion can be uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to get in the way of you living your life to the fullest. At Austin Gastroenterology, our team of board-certified physicians and skilled GI care providers offers gentle care guided by evidence-based techniques and a warm heart. We offer comprehensive treatment for indigestion and a range of other digestive health disorders from 18 offices throughout the greater Austin area. To schedule an appointment, you can send us a message on Klara or fill out our secure online appointment request form today.