Symptoms of Indigestion:
- Pain or Discomfort:
A burning or sensation or pain in the upper abdomen.
- Bloating:
Feeling full or bloated after eating, even small meals.
- Nausea:
Feeling queasy or experiencing an urge to vomit.
- Gas:
Excessive belching or passing of gas.
- Acidic Taste:
Sour or acidic taste in the mouth.
Causes of Indigestion:
- Overeating:
Consuming large meals or eating too quickly.
- Spicy or Fatty Foods:
Foods high in fat or spices can trigger indigestion.
- Acidic Beverages:
Consumption of acidic drinks like coffee, citrus juices, or alcohol.
- Smoking:
Tobacco use can relax the stomach muscles, leading to indigestion.
- Stress or Anxiety:
Emotional stress can affect digestion and trigger symptoms.
- Medications:
Some medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or antibiotics, can cause indigestion.
- Digestive Disorders:
Conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or peptic ulcers can lead to chronic indigestion.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
- New onset of symptoms particularly in middle age
- Persistent Chronic Symptoms:
If indigestion symptoms persist for more than two weeks.
- Severe Symptoms:
Severe pain, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, or unintentional weight loss.
