Causes of Indigestion

Indigestion (dyspepsia) means discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, often with fullness, bloating or nausea. It is very common and has many causes, from food habits to medical conditions.

Everyday causes

• Eating too fast, too much, or very late at night
• Fatty, fried, spicy or very rich foods
• Too much coffee, tea, fizzy drinks or alcohol
• Smoking
• Stress, anxiety and poor sleep
• Swallowing air while eating or chewing gum

Medicines

• Painkillers such as ibuprofen, diclofenac and aspirin (NSAIDs)
• Some antibiotics, iron supplements and steroids
• Some blood pressure and diabetes medicines

Medical causes

• Acid reflux (GERD): acid moving up into the food pipe
• Peptic ulcer: a sore in the stomach or first part of the intestine
• Helicobacter pylori infection of the stomach
• Gastritis: inflammation of the stomach lining
• Gallstones, pancreatitis or other digestive problems
• Delayed stomach emptying, for example in diabetes
• Celiac disease or lactose intolerance
• Rarely, stomach or food pipe cancer

Functional dyspepsia

In many people, no clear cause is found, even after tests. The stomach may be more sensitive or empty slowly. This is called functional dyspepsia.

Ayurvedic view

Ayurveda describes indigestion as ajirna, linked to weak digestive fire (agnimandya) and aggravated doshas. This is an interpretive framework and not a proven explanation.

Key point

Most indigestion comes from habits and is manageable, but persistent or alarming symptoms need a medical check.

Before your appointment

Note when symptoms started, how they relate to meals, and what makes them better or worse. List all medicines, especially painkillers, and any herbal products. Mention weight loss, vomiting, black stools, trouble swallowing, family history of stomach problems, smoking and alcohol. Ask about tests such as an H. pylori test or endoscopy, and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.