Acid indigestion, also known simply as indigestion or as dyspepsia, refers to discomfort in the upper abdominal area after eating. Indigestion is common and typically not serious. Though indigestion affects people differently, altered eating habits, stress relief and antacid medications may help treat minor cases. If your symptoms are severe or last more than a few days, seek guidance from your doctor.
Uncomfortable Fullness
Uncomfortable fullness is a common symptom of indigestion. According to the Mayo Clinic, people with indigestion may experience early fullness, which occurs while a person is still eating and before fullness should typically occur. Others experience uncomfortable fullness following meals. This may last for a short or an elongated period of time. If you find that stress or particular foods trigger excessive fullness and other indigestion symptoms, relaxation techniques and avoidance of foods that trigger your symptoms may prove helpful. Common trigger foods include spicy foods, deep-fried foods, high-fiber foods and highly acidic foods. Caffeinated beverages and alcohol are also known to cause symptoms.
Abdominal Pain
Pain in the upper abdominal area is another common symptom of indigestion. More specifically, pain from indigestion appears between the breastbone (sternum) and belly button. The intensity of the pain varies amongst individuals. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that those who experience sudden, severe pain seek medical attention. Over-the-counter antacids, pain relievers or slow, relaxed breathing techniques may help relieve mild to moderate pain associated with indigestion. If you tend to eat quickly, slowing down and setting your fork down between bites may help prevent your symptoms. Overeating can also lead to indigestion, so adhere to appropriate portion sizes.
Burning Sensation
A tight or burning sensation may develop in the upper abdominal area as a result of indigestion. It is a common symptom in mild cases of indigestion and generally does not require your doctor's care. According to the Mayo Clinic, some people with indigestion also experience heartburn -- a similar burning sensation that takes place in the chest area after eating. However, heartburn and indigestion are separate conditions that may require differing treatment.
If your indigestion symptoms are accompanied by additional symptoms, such as loss of appetite, vomiting, jaundice (yellow tone of the skin or eyes) or chest pain, seek medical attention promptly. In rare cases, serious symptoms, such as heart attack symptoms, are mistaken for those of indigestion.
