Last Updated on Saturday, 17 January 2009 06:12

Indigestion

Indigestion is a common problem and can occur in people of all ages. Indigestion describes a condition where the acid levels in the stomach rise above normal. Symptoms may include an unsettled or bloated feeling in your stomach, tightness or stomach pain, burping and flatulence or wind pain. Eating too quickly, eating spicy rich food which ‘disagrees with us, such as too much alcohol or coffee – can all cause indigestion. Some people also suffer from indigestion when they are under stress.

Heartburn

Heartburn describes the burning sensation in the chest some people feel, but it has nothing to do with your heart. heartburn symptoms occur when acid rises up or refluxes from your stomach into your oesophagus – which unlike your stomach isn’t protected against acid. The acid causes the burning or stinging symptoms in the throat. It may also cause nausea or regurgitation of food or liquid. The same food and eating habits that cause indigestion can also cause also trigger heartburn. It’s common in people who are overweight or women in the late stages of pregnancy, when there is increased pressure on the stomach.