Indigestion (dyspepsia) is a general term for upper tummy discomfort, which can include feeling overly full, bloated, queasy, or having a gnawing or burning ache around the breastbone. Heartburn is one possible feature, caused by acid coming up the food pipe, but indigestion can occur without classic heartburn.
Common causes are large or rich meals, eating too fast, fatty or spicy food, caffeine, alcohol, smoking, stress, and some medicines such as anti-inflammatory painkillers. Simple steps include smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods, not lying down after eating, and stopping smoking. A pharmacist can recommend antacids or acid reducers for short-term relief.
See a doctor if indigestion is frequent, persistent, or starts for the first time after age 55, or if it comes with difficulty swallowing, recurrent vomiting, weight loss, black or bloody stools, or anaemia, as these can point to an ulcer or other condition needing investigation.