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Causes & Symptoms
Indigestion occurs when the layer of mucus that naturally lines the stomach, oesophagus (food pipe) and intestines becomes irritated or damaged by acid from the stomach. In the case of heartburn this is because the sphincter (ring of muscle) between the entrance to the oesophagus and the stomach relaxes, or opens just enough, to let acid back up. It is the irritation or damage to the unprotected lining of the oesophagus that causes the burning feeling or discomfort in the chest.
Triggers may include:
The way you eat...
- Eating large meals cause your stomach to produce too much acid. Physically 'overfilling' the stomach can also create pressure and cause acid to escape.
- Eating irregularly or too quickly can mean that acid levels don't have time to regulate.
- Eating on the run or just before bedtime can make it easier for acid to escape back up into the oesophagus.
The types of food you eat...
- Fatty foods tend to stay in your stomach for longer because fats are slower to digest.
- Foods such as chocolate and mint may have a relaxant effect on the sphincter muscle at the entrance to the stomach enabling acid to escape back up.
- Spicy foods, onions and tomato products can also be triggers.
The types of drinks you drink...
- Caffeinated drinks and alcohol tend to increase acidity in your stomach.
- Citrus juices can also trigger indigestion.
Other known triggers include...
- Certain medicines, such as those for heart problems, asthma and high blood pressure can sometimes make the stomach produce more acid.
- Being overweight or wearing tight clothes can put pressure on the stomach.
- Smoking can encourage acid production and cause the sphincter to relax. It may also slow down the production of saliva which helps to protect the oesophagus.
Many people can pinpoint the cause of their indigestion and take action accordingly, but if you are suffering regularly, or have any concerns, consult your GP.
If you are suffering from any of the following you should consult your doctor:
- Symptoms developing for the first time in mid or later life.
- Abdominal pain before or after meals.
- Persistent feeling of fullness, bloating or flatulence.
- Nausea or vomiting – particularly if it has bright red blood or dark brown bits in it.
- Pain or difficulty in swallowing.
- Ongoing loss of appetite/continued unexplained weight loss.
- Persistent diarrhoea, constipation or any alteration in bowel habit.
- Change in stools (bowel motions) especially if they become black, dark red, pale or contain mucus (slime).
- Bleeding or pain when you pass a stool.
- Generally feeling tired, lethargic or unwell in association with any abdominal symptoms.
- guidelines from CORE and the British Society of Gastroenterology
