Incidence of indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is easily identified by a characteristic discomfort or burning sensation in the upper stomach. Nausea, bloating, and vomiting are just a few of the many symptoms associated with indigestion, and there are an equally large number of potential causes. Notably, heartburn has recently been identified as yet another potential contributing factor.
Although indigestion may be the result of a functional problem, such as a stomach structure abnormality, usually more benign sources are to blame. Eating too much and too quickly, foods high in fat, alcoholic drinks, carbonated drinks, spicy foods, and smoking can all cause indigestion for some individuals. Furthermore, taking medications that irritate the stomach lining, being tired, and experiencing stress, depression or anxiety may also contribute. Likewise, inflammation of the gall bladder, stomach, or pancreas can also result in indigestion.
Additional studies have found that individuals experiencing indigestion also frequently complain of simultaneous heartburn. It is thought that the stomach acid involved in indigestion sometimes backs up into the esophagus and results in the added pain of heartburn.
