Digestive Problems
Common Symptoms: Indigestion or Heartburn
Dyspepsia, often referred to as indigestion or heartburn, is the medical term which describes upper abdominal ("epigastric") discomfort which occurs after eating. It is a full feeling, often associated with nausea, presumably due to distention of the stomach, and irritation by acid. It is usually provoked or made worse by large, spicy or fatty meals. Dyspepsia usually settles spontaneously after 30 minutes to an hour, but can be relieved in most cases by taking some form of "antacid" medicine. Many people have some dyspepsia or indigestion from time to time, particularly when eating (or drinking) unwisely. However, recurrent or increasing dyspepsia can be a sign of serious disease, and warrants investigation, especially if it is associated with other worrying symptoms such as weight loss, reduced appetite, or vomiting.