Indigestion / Dyspepsia

Overview

Indigestion — medically called dyspepsia — is a feeling of fullness, bloating, discomfort or burning in the upper abdomen during or after eating. It is very common and may be caused by acid-related disease, gastritis, peptic ulcers, H. pylori infection, or by functional (non-ulcer) dyspepsia where no structural cause is found despite thorough testing. This is the central page for persistent indigestion-related symptoms; related symptom pages such as Acidity and Heartburn, Bloating and Upper Abdominal Pain link here rather than repeating the dyspepsia content.

Common symptoms

• Fullness or bloating during or soon after meals.
• Upper abdominal discomfort or mild pain.
• Belching and gas.
• A burning sensation in the upper abdomen.
• Mild nausea after eating.
• Feeling full sooner than expected (early satiety).

Common causes

• Functional (non-ulcer) dyspepsia — the commonest cause, where tests are normal.
• Acid reflux / GERD.
• Gastritis and peptic ulcer disease.
• H. pylori infection of the stomach.
• Gallbladder disease.
• Side-effects of medicines such as painkillers or iron.
• Eating too fast, large meals, or fatty and spicy food.

Evaluation

Evaluation reviews the symptom pattern, its relationship to food, any weight loss or bleeding, and medicine use. Most cases are assessed clinically and treated with a trial of acid-suppressing medicine. An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is arranged when symptoms are persistent, recur after treatment, or come with warning features — to look for ulcers, gastritis, H. pylori or other structural causes. Blood tests, an ultrasound and H. pylori testing may be added.

Management

Management combines lifestyle measures (smaller regular meals, avoiding trigger foods, not eating late) with acid-suppressing medicines where appropriate. When H. pylori is confirmed, a specific eradication course is given. Functional dyspepsia is managed with symptom-directed treatment and reassurance, as tests are normal. Treatment is reviewed rather than continued indefinitely without reassessment.

Diet and lifestyle

• Eat smaller, regular meals and chew food slowly.
• Avoid fatty, spicy and very large meals.
• Limit tea, coffee, alcohol and carbonated drinks.
• Avoid lying down soon after eating.
• Note and avoid foods that consistently trigger symptoms.

Warning signs — seek prompt care

• Persistent vomiting or vomiting blood.
• Black, tarry stools or blood in the stool.
• Unintended weight loss or persistent loss of appetite.
• Difficulty or pain on swallowing.
• Severe abdominal pain.

How we help

Dr. Nayak identifies the cause of persistent indigestion, arranges endoscopy when indicated, and builds a tailored lifestyle-and-medicine plan. Consultations are available in-clinic in Bhubaneswar and over teleconsultation.

Related conditions and patient concerns

• Acidity and Heartburn
• Acid Reflux / GERD
• Gastritis
• Peptic Ulcer Disease
• Bloating
• Upper Abdominal Pain