Most people have indigestion at some point. Usually, it's not a sign of anything more serious and you can treat it yourself.

How to tell if you have indigestion (dyspepsia)

You can have the following symptoms after eating or drinking:

• heartburn – a painful burning feeling in the chest, often after eating
• feeling full and bloated
• feeling sick
• belching and farting
• bringing up food or bitter-tasting fluids into your mouth

When it's not indigestion

Stomach ache or back pain are usually not symptoms of indigestion. If you have those you might be constipated.

Indigestion, heartburn and acid reflux – what's the difference?

Heartburn and acid reflux are the same thing – when acid from your stomach comes up your throat. You'll have a burning feeling when this happens. This can be a symptom of indigestion.

How you can treat indigestion yourself

There's usually no need to see a GP about indigestion. There are some things you can do at home.

Do

• cut down on tea, coffee, cola or alcohol
• prop your head and shoulders up in bed – this can stop stomach acid coming up while you sleep
• lose weight if you're overweight

Don’t

• eat 3 to 4 hours before going to bed
• have rich, spicy or fatty foods
• take ibuprofen or aspirin – this can make indigestion worse
• smoke

A pharmacist can help with indigestion

A pharmacist can recommend medicines to ease the burning feeling or pain that can come with indigestion. Medicines that help reduce acid in your stomach include:

• antacids
• proton pump inhibitors

Some indigestion medicines are best to take after eating as their effects last longer. 

What causes indigestion

The acid in your stomach can irritate the stomach lining or your throat. This causes indigestion and gives you a burning feeling and pain. Other things that can cause indigestion include:

• medicines
• smoking
• alcohol
• a type of bacterial infection called helicobacter pylori

Stress can make indigestion worse.