Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is a broad description of several different stomach ailments. Under the indigestion umbrella are conditions such as acid reflux, heartburn, bloating, andgastritis. Essentially, indigestion is the result of consuming too many spicy, fibrous, or fatty foods too quickly. The stomach's acids become temporarily overwhelmed and the churning liquids may be sent back up through a portion of the esophagus, a process called reflux. This often leads to a burning sensation near the heart, which is why the pain is often called heartburn.

It's not just certain types of foods which can trigger indigestion. Stress and anxiety can lead to a triggering of excess stomach acids, which means an average meal could still create indigestion. The amount of time between meals can also be a factor. As more time lapses between meals, the stomach acids become stronger. Once food is introduced, the normal balance between the mucosal lining of the stomach and the acids may be compromised. This can lead to stomach acids penetrating to the sensitive lining and causing ulcers.

he symptoms of indigestion can be mistaken for the early warning signs of a heart attack, but most medical professionals can tell the difference within a few minutes of examination. If over-the-counter remedies have little to no effect on your feelings of indigestion, it may be a good idea to visit the emergency room or another medical facility as soon as possible.