Symptoms of Indigestion

Indigestion usually causes discomfort in the upper abdomen, between the navel and the lower ribs.

Common symptoms

• Burning or pain in the upper belly
• Feeling full too soon or uncomfortably full after meals
• Bloating and belching
• Nausea, and sometimes vomiting
• Heartburn or acid taste in the mouth
• Loss of appetite or a sense of heaviness

Symptoms often come and go

They may appear after meals, at night or when you are stressed, and can last for days or weeks.

Alarm features: see a doctor soon

• Black, tarry stools or blood in vomit
• Difficulty or pain when swallowing
• Unintended weight loss
• Persistent vomiting
• Signs of anaemia, such as paleness and tiredness
• A lump in the abdomen
• New indigestion after age 55
• Symptoms lasting more than 2 weeks despite simple measures
• Family history of stomach or food pipe cancer

Do not mistake chest pain for indigestion

Call 112 or 102 if you have chest pressure or tightness, pain spreading to the arm, jaw or back, sweating, breathlessness or fainting. Heart attacks can feel like indigestion.

Severe upper abdominal pain

Severe, constant pain with fever or vomiting may signal gallstones, pancreatitis or an ulcer problem and needs urgent care.

Key point

Mild, occasional indigestion is common. Alarm signs and chest symptoms need prompt medical attention.

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.