According to John Hopkins University, about 25 percent of adults in the U.S. will suffer some amount of indigestion. When stomach acid backs up into your esophagus (a hollow, muscular tube that starts in the throat and ends at the stomach) it results in a burning sensation known as heartburn. Indigestion, meanwhile, is a term used to describe upper abdominal symptoms such as bloating, a premature feeling of fullness after eating and belching. Acid indigestion produces a burning discomfort in the core of your stomach that can be due to acid irritating the stomach lining. There are several possible causes of both acid and indigestion.
Physiological Effects
According to HeartburnAlliance.org, heartburn is caused when acidic stomach juices drift backward (reflux) into the esophagus. This usually happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (the valve that prevents stomach acid from leaking into the esophagus) loosens or otherwise fails to function correctly. The backup of acid can intensify if you are lying down or hunched over. Acid indigestion is triggered not only by excess acid, but also because of insufficient defenses from the mucus that lines the stomach.
Food & Beverages
The Mayo Clinic says there are several possible causes of indigestion, some of which include an overindulgence of foods that are spicy, fatty and/or greasy and caffeinated or carbonated beverages. In some people citrus juices and milk may trigger an upset stomach. Chocolate and alcohol may also contribute to problems with indigestion, as can smoking, emotional upset and anxiety.
Medical Conditions & Medications
Iron and niacin as well as certain medications (antibiotics, aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs/NSAIDs), corticosteroids and chemotherapy drugs can lead to stomach upset. According to Quickcare.org, female hormones (estrogen and progesterone) may cause indigestion. Medical conditions that may trigger indigestion are peptic ulcers, gallstones, pancreatitis (pancreas inflammation), gastritis (stomach inflammation) and stomach cancer.
