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Causes and Symptoms of Indigestion

by | May 29, 2024 | Info | 0 comments

Indigestion or Dyspepsia Overview

Dyspepsia, the medical term for indigestion or upset stomach, refers to discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, often after eating or drinking. It is not a disease but a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other conditions.

Indigestion or dyspepsia is a common problem, affecting up to 20% of the population. Common symptoms include bloating, discomfort, feeling too full, nausea, and gas.

In most cases, it happens after eating or drinking. Lifestyle changes can often help.

Other causes include medical conditions, such as gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD), and the use of certain medications.

Symptoms of Indigestion or Dyspepsia

A doctor will diagnose dyspepsia if a person has one or more of the following symptoms:

  • A burning sensation in the digestive tract
  • Feeling too full after eating
  • Pain relating to the digestive system
  • Feeling full too quickly while eating

A person may also experience bloating and nausea. A patient can have symptoms even if they have not eaten a large amount.

Causes of Indigestion or Dyspepsia

Indigestion can result from lifestyle or dietary habits, a medical condition, or the use of some drugs.

Common causes of indigestion include:

If there is no identifiable structural or metabolic cause, a doctor will diagnose functional dyspepsia.

Dyspepsia can also be a symptom of a wide range of health conditions, including:

In pregnancy

Dyspepsia is common during pregnancy, especially in the last trimester. This is due to hormonal changes and the way the fetus presses against the stomach.

A doctor or pharmacist can recommend safe ways to manage indigestion during pregnancy.

Diagnosis of Indigestion or Dyspepsia

A doctor will ask the person about:

  • Their symptoms
  • Patients personal and family medical history
  • Any other health conditions and medications that they are taking
  • Individuals dietary habits

They may also examine the chest and stomach. This may involve pressing down on different parts of the abdomen to check for areas that may be sensitive, tender, or painful under pressure.

In some cases, a doctor may use the following tests to rule out an underlying health condition:

  • Blood test: This can assess for anemia, liver problems, and other conditions.
  • Tests for H. pylori infection: In addition to a blood test, these tests may include a urea breath test and a stool antigen test.
  • Endoscopy: The doctor will use a long, thin tube with a camera to take images of the gastrointestinal tract during this procedure. They may also take a tissue sample for a biopsy. This can help them diagnose an ulcer or a tumor.


Complications of Indigestion or Dyspepsia

In very rare cases, severe and persistent indigestion can lead to complications. These include:

Esophageal stricture

Persistent exposure to stomach acid can cause scarring in the upper gastrointestinal tract. The tract can become narrow and constricted, causing difficulty with swallowing and chest pain. Surgery may be necessary to widen the esophagus for a person with an esophageal stricture.

Pyloric stenosis

In some cases, stomach acid can cause long-term irritation of the pylorus, the passage between the stomach and the small intestine. If the pylorus becomes scarred, it can narrow. If that happens, a person may not be able to digest food properly, and they may need surgery for pyloric stenosis.

Peritonitis

Over time, stomach acid can cause the lining of the digestive system to break down, leading to an infection called peritonitis. Medication or surgery may be necessary.

When to seek Medical Attention

Many people experience mild dyspepsia from time to time and manage it with lifestyle changes or OTC medication.

However, anyone who has frequent indigestion or worsening symptoms should seek medical help.

People should see a doctor if they have the following symptoms alongside indigestion:

  • blood in the stools or black stools
  • frequent vomiting, especially with traces of blood
  • difficulty swallowing food
  • unexplained weight loss
  • chest pain that spreads to the jaw, arm, or neck
  • severe and constant abdominal pain
  • shortness of breath
  • sweating
  • yellow coloring in the eyes and skin


Summary

Dyspepsia, also known as indigestion, refers to discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, often after eating or drinking.

It is often mild, and patients can make dietary and lifestyle changes to help manage it. If these do not work, a doctor can prescribe medications.

In some cases, there may be a more serious underlying cause. Anyone who has concerns about new, severe, or ongoing dyspepsia should seek medical advice.

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