Indigestion is also called dyspepsia and is a pain felt in the upper part of the abdomen underneath the rib cage.
Indigestion is very common. It can be caused by inflammation of the stomach lining, ulcers, gallstones or irritable bowel syndrome. Smoking, stress, and excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption all increase the risk of indigestion, as does being overweight.
To avoid it, eat small portions of food at regular intervals and avoid rushing meals. Keep fried, fatty and spicy food to a minimum.
Certain medicines, such as aspirin, can also cause indigestion.
The most common symptom is pain, usually after eating. This might be mild or severe - many people suffering indigestion for the first time think they're having a heart attack. Other symptoms include bloating, wind, belching and nausea.
Medication can neutralise stomach acid and reduce its production. If an ulcer is diagnosed, antibiotics may be prescribed to eliminate the bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), which is often the cause of ulcers.