Indigestion and heartburn

Overview

Indigestion can include fullness, bloating, nausea or burning after food and drink. Some people notice bitter fluid coming back into the mouth. These descriptions help start a conversation, but symptoms in the chest or upper abdomen should not automatically be labelled indigestion.

A useful history includes what is new as well as what is familiar. You might be concerned about symptoms that interrupt meals, disturb sleep or keep returning despite changes you have made. Tell the doctor why you are seeking advice now and whether anything feels different from previous episodes.

By video

For a non-urgent problem, a video appointment may help organise the history, review previous advice and consider whether an examination or investigation is needed. The discussion can include how the symptoms relate to meals, your existing conditions and medicines you already take.

Do not worry about finding the perfect medical description. Explain where the discomfort is, when you notice it and what you mean by words such as burning or bloating. If several symptoms occur together, describe their order. The doctor can ask further questions rather than relying on a label alone.

By telephone

Telephone can help describe the timing of familiar digestive symptoms, triggers and earlier treatment. Unexplained, persistent or changing symptoms may need examination and investigation; not all discomfort in this area is indigestion.

What cannot be done remotely

A remote conversation cannot examine your abdomen or carry out tests. It cannot safely establish that unexplained chest pain is digestive in origin. The next step may be an in-person examination, investigations or urgent care, depending on the history.

This proposed page does not promise a diagnosis, test package or treatment. Practical arrangements for any subsequent care would need to be explained separately. A pharmacy can advise about uncomplicated indigestion, but repeatedly returning symptoms or warning signs need medical assessment rather than indefinite self-treatment.

What to prepare

• Describe the location and timing of discomfort, how long episodes last and whether swallowing is affected.
• Record any vomiting, change in bowel habits or unintentional weight change.
• List prescribed and non-prescription medicines, supplements and anything tried for the symptoms.
• Have previous test results or clinic letters available if you already have them; do not delay urgent help to find paperwork.
• Write your main question down, including any concern about eating, sleeping or continuing an existing plan.

Sources

• NHS: indigestion
• NHS: chest pain
• NHS: stomach ache
• GMC: remote consultations

Related guides

• Constipation and changes in bowel habit