Heartburn and indigestion often have similar causes and can occur simultaneously. Heartburn results in a burning or painful feeling in the upper chest and throat from stomach acid reflux. Indigestion can include heartburn and abdominal discomfort, such as a feeling of fullness, bloating, belching and nausea, according to MedlinePlus. Symptoms do not indicate serious health problems unless they become chronic or involve underlying conditions.
Function
Heartburn originates from a relaxed esophageal muscle that results in acid reflux. The muscle, called the lower esophageal sphincter, usually opens to allow food into the stomach and closes to prevent content backup. When not closing properly, stomach acid rises back up into the esophagus and throat, causing the acid reflux action that brings on heartburn, FamilyDoctor.org explains. Sometimes a bitter or sour taste affects the back of the throat or mouth.
Contributing Factors
Eating a big meal, eating too fast or consuming certain foods may cause heartburn, indigestion or both. Spicy or fatty foods, alcoholic beverages, carbonated drinks or caffeine can trigger heartburn and indigestion. Tomato-based products, onions and chocolate may lead to heartburn. Stress or anxiety, especially while eating, worsen heartburn and indigestion. Gastric ulcers and certain medicines, including aspirin and some prescription drugs, contribute to the conditions. Smoking can trigger heartburn and indigestion. Underlying conditions causing indigestion include gallstones and inflammation of the pancreas.
Pregnancy
Many women suffer from heartburn and indigestion during pregnancy. Being overweight contributes to the conditions because of pressure on the abdomen. The same result can occur during pregnancy. Hormones also relax muscles in the digestive tract at this time. The relaxed muscles allow stomach acid to more easily rise back up and slow down the digestion process in the stomach, leading to heartburn and indigestion, according to the March of Dimes.
Prevention
People affected by frequent heartburn and indigestion can relieve symptoms by eating smaller meals, drinking less while eating and avoiding the foods that trigger the conditions. Different people may have symptoms from particular foods. Lying down or sleeping several hours after eating prevents heartburn symptoms. People who suffer symptoms during the night can raise the head of their bed four to six inches, using wooden blocks under the bedposts. Extra pillows do not raise the upper body to prevent symptoms.
Remedies
Over-the-counter medications can relieve heartburn and indigestion. Antacids often provide immediate relief for heartburn. Products also include anti-gas properties to relieve indigestion. Acid blockers reduce the production of stomach acid. Heartburn that occurs more than twice a week indicates gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. Doctors can provide stronger medication that lasts longer to treat severe symptoms. If problems persist, a medical examination can detect underlying causes for heartburn or indigestion.
