Our bodies naturally produce stomach acid to help break down food through the digestive process. Heartburn and indigestion can occur when too much stomach acid is produced, or if it is forced into the food pipe.
Indigestion covers a group of digestive symptoms such as discomfort in the chest or abdomen, bloating, a burning feeling in the chest or stomach, nausea or belching.
Heartburn is a digestive symptom in the form of a burning pain or discomfort just below your breastbone. It occurs when stomach acid is passed backwards up into the food pipe, also known as stomach acid reflux. Heartburn and indigestion will be experienced by most people at some point in their lives. While this can be uncomfortable and annoying, most cases will be mild.
Other heartburn symptoms include:
- Chest pain when bending over or lying down
- Burning in the throat
- Sensation of food getting stuck in the chest or throat
- Coughing, sore throat or hoarseness
Did you know? Over a third of adults are affected by heartburn 1
What causes heartburn and indigestion?
In most cases heartburn and indigestion is related to eating although it can also be caused by:
- Excess weight
- Some medications
Did you know? Indigestion is also known as dyspepsia
If your indigestion or heartburn is accompanied by more serious symptoms such as sudden weight loss, vomiting blood or severe pain you should speak with your doctor or pharmacist.