Indigestion (Dyspepsia)

Indigestion is a general term that describes a group of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms that occur together, including pain, a burning feeling, or discomfort in your upper abdomen; feeling full too soon while eating; feeling uncomfortably full after eating; and bloating, nausea, or belching. Indigestion may happen from time to time or be chronic.

Indigestion has many symptoms. You may have more than one symptom at the same time. Sometimes you may also have heartburn, which is a separate condition. Functional dyspepsia, medicines, and health problems or diseases may cause indigestion.

Your doctor may diagnose the cause of indigestion based on your symptoms, medical history, a physical exam, and tests. Tests may include upper GI endoscopy, imaging and H. pylori testing.

How doctors treat indigestion depends on the cause. Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter or prescription medicines, changing what you eat and drink, or mental health therapies.

If certain foods lead to indigestion symptoms or make symptoms worse, changing your diet may help. If you have functional dyspepsia, you may need to avoid certain foods and drinks, such as carbonated drinks, coffee, fruits and fruit juice, wheat or grains, and fatty or greasy foods. Talk with your doctor or a registered dietitian about diet changes.

NIDDK conducts and supports clinical trials in many diseases and conditions, including digestive diseases. The trials look to find new ways to prevent, detect, or treat disease and improve quality of life.