Think Youve Got Food Poisoning?
Youve felt this before, but arent exactly sure what it is.
Experts in This Article
gastroenterologist in Los Angeles, California
Short answer: Theyre not.
But it can be tough to tell the difference between heartburn and indigestion sometimes.
Indigestion is often used as a broad blanket term of having symptoms after eating.
To add to this confusion, its also possible to have heartburnwhileyoure having indigestion, too.
gastroenterologist in Los Angeles, California
What is indigestion?
Indigestion is basically another name for an upset stomach.
(Doctors call it dyspepsia.)
Its a symptom of an underlying problem, not a condition in itself.
Its this sensation of feeling uncomfortable.
It tends to be localized to the upper abdomen, says Dr. LeBrett.
The most common indigestion symptoms include the following, per theMayo Clinic:
What is heartburn?
Heartburn or acid reflux happens when digestive acids from your stomach flow up into your esophagus or throat.
There are a number of things that can stir up indigestion.
gastroenterologist in Los Angeles, California
Think eating a heavy meal (burger and beer, anyone?)
or eating too fast.
Antibiotics can also be a short-term culprit.
Indigestion that happens regularly, though, is usually due to an underlying health issue, says Dr. LeBrett.
That could be:
What causes heartburn?
This phenomenon is often called acid reflux.
From there, feelings of heartburn can ensue.
Shes also a fan ofwalking after eating, which helps move food out of your stomach faster.
you could also try digestion-promoting teas like ginger or peppermint tea, she adds.
Some of thebest herbs for indigestionalso include chamomile, fennel, and licorice, perHarvard Health Publishing.
Over-the-counter (OTC) antacids are also highly effective for soothing indigestion.
If the indigestion is from an infection, they may prescribe antibiotics, for instance.
Or if it seems to stem from anxiety, they can refer you to a therapist for support.
(More on those in a minute.)
Wendi LeBrett, MD, gastroenterologist
Can you prevent heartburn or indigestion?
Very often, yes.
Other lifestyle prevention tips include the following, per Dr. LeBrett:
What about GERD?
You may have heard the term GERD beforeor gastroesophageal reflux diseasein reference to certain stomach issues.
But is GERD different from any of the issues above?
GERD is basically a more severe form of acid reflux that happens on a regular basis.
When to see a doctor
The occasional bout of indigestion or heartburn isnt typically cause for concern.
Of course, you should also see your doctor if your stomach pain and symptoms are severe.
FAQ
How can you tell the difference between indigestion and a heart attack?
To be honest, this is not always easy.
If its new or different, seek medical care, advises Dr. LeBrett.
What causes a burning sensation in the right upper abdomen?
So definitely get it checked out by a doctor as soon as possible.
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