1. Confirm Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is a common cause of frequent indigestion. However, many other more serious diseases are often misdiagnosed as IBS, so don't immediately accept IBS as an explanation. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is characterized by abdominal pain and bloating, or your usual upset stomach. IBS also causes an irregular bowel movements, like constipation or diarrhea, and harder or looser stool than normal. Symptoms beyond these, however, may indicate a different diagnosis.
2. Identify Heartburn and Acid Reflux Disease
If your frequent indigestion is coupled with heartburn, you may have Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, or GERD. Heartburn is a burning sensation or tightness in your chest that occurs after eating. Most people experience heartburn at one time another. However, if you have chronic heartburn symptoms, and you frequently suffer from upset stomach, you may have GERD. Left untreated, this condition can cause many other complications.
3. Recognize Ulcer Symptoms
When stomach ulcers, or peptic ulcers, present symptoms, these are characterized by a burning sensation in the top half of the stomach that you'll notice between meals. Other symptoms include heartburn, bloating and nausea. An ulcer may feel like indigestion, but if you continue to feel burning pain in the upper abdomen, or if you see blood in your vomit or stool, ask your doctor to examine you. Ulcers are damaged areas of your stomach or intestinal lining, and they can lead to more serious issues.
4. Consider Gallstones
Gallstones, though a condition of the gallbladder and not the stomach, present symptoms that mimic indigestion. People with gallstones also experience nausea, vomiting, indigestion, bloating and gas. With gallstones, the abdominal pain, which can be long lasting, presents in the upper back area as well as the upper abdomen. If your chronic indigestion includes back pain, and you are at high risk for gallstones, tell your doctor.
