Types of Indigestion

Doctors usually divide indigestion into two main groups, based on whether a cause is found.

Functional (non-ulcer) dyspepsia

• No structural cause is found on tests such as endoscopy.
• It is the most common type, about 7 in 10 people with long-term indigestion.
• Two patterns are recognised:
  • Postprandial distress: fullness and early satiety after meals
  • Epigastric pain syndrome: upper abdominal pain or burning, not always linked to meals

Organic (secondary) dyspepsia

A clear cause is found, such as:

• Peptic ulcer
• GERD and oesophagitis
• Helicobacter pylori gastritis
• Gallstones, pancreatitis
• Medicine-related stomach irritation
• Rarely, cancer

By duration

• Acute: a short episode, often after a heavy meal or a medicine
• Chronic: lasting more than a month, or recurring over months

Related patterns

• Reflux-type symptoms (heartburn and acid regurgitation)
• Bloating and gas-predominant symptoms
• Nausea-predominant symptoms

Ayurvedic view

Ayurveda describes types of ajirna, such as amajirna, vidagdhajirna and vishtabdhajirna, linked to different doshas. This is a traditional classification and not a modern one.

Key point

Persistent indigestion should be checked, since the treatment differs for functional and organic types.

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.