Indigestion, or dyspepsia, is a common ailment that can bring about a range of uncomfortable symptoms, leaving you feeling full and experiencing stomach pain.

It’s a condition that affects many individuals and can significantly impact their quality of life. In this article, experts delve into the intricacies of indigestion, exploring its causes, symptoms and treatment options.

Additionally, they shed light on the distinction between indigestion and heartburn, offering clarity on these often confused terms.

What is dyspepsia (indigestion)?

Dyspepsia, commonly known as indigestion, is a collective term encompassing a range of gastrointestinal symptoms. According to the U.S. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), these symptoms typically manifest as pain, a burning sensation or general discomfort in the upper abdomen.

Heartburn vs. indigestion: What’s the difference?

Heartburn and indigestion are often used interchangeably to describe digestive discomfort, but they are distinct conditions with different underlying causes and symptoms. It’s important to understand the difference between the two to address and manage the discomfort properly. While a burning sensation in the chest characterizes heartburn, indigestion refers to a broader set of gastrointestinal symptoms, including pain, bloating and a feeling of fullness.

“Acid reflux is a disorder of the lower esophageal sphincter that can cause various symptoms when it occurs,” Dr. F.P. “Tripp” Buckley III, surgical director of Digestive Health, a clinical partnership between UT Health Austin and Ascension Seton, said in a recent article. “Symptoms of acid reflux include a burning in your chest, known as heartburn, regurgitation, excessive belching and sour taste when acid and bile flow back up the esophagus and into your throat or mouth.”

On the other hand, indigestion “is a broad term that involves a variety of symptoms, and sometimes those symptoms may be related to other conditions,” Stephanie Doggett, a licensed physician assistant at Digestive Health, added. “If you are experiencing persistent indigestion, it is recommended that you speak with your doctor, providing a precise description of the discomfort you are experiencing so they can try to rule out any underlying conditions that may be causing your symptoms.”

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What does indigestion feel like?

Cleveland Clinic explains that the abdomen houses the significant organs of the digestive system. Hence, any difficulties they encounter during their functions will likely be felt there. Indigestion symptoms typically manifest after meals, when the stomach is actively digesting.

Medical professionals concur on the common symptoms associated with indigestion, which include: