You may not think you need to see a Brooklyn gastroenterologist for indigestion, but it may be more necessary than you think. Indigestion is a term used to describe numerous symptoms that people have related to the digestive processes. This can include nausea, heartburn, bloating, and burping. In many situations, there is no significant problem and the condition will improve on its own without treatment. However, it may be more severe in some people.
One key factor to keep in mind about indigestion is that it can vary significantly from one person to the next. The way you feel and the symptoms you have are different from those of another person. Most commonly, the symptoms are related to upper abdominal discomfort or an upset stomach.
What Causes Indigestion?
The causes of this condition vary as well. It can occur as a result of overindulging in fatty or high-sugar foods. It can occur in people who eat too much spice in their food. In some cases, eating too much, eating too fast, or consuming alcohol can bring it on. Stress has also been linked to indigestion. Again, in most cases, it will improve on its own. However, when it becomes chronic, which means it occurs frequently, it may be time to call your indigestion doctor in Brooklyn.
What Conditions Can Cause Indigestion?
Indigestion itself is not a disease. However, it can be a symptom of a disease. Those may include the following:
Heartburn
Heartburn occurs when acid from the stomach that is used to break down food backs up into the esophagus. This is also called acid reflux. You may experience burning sensations in your upper abdomen from this condition. It can also cause discomfort in the area under your breastbone. Some people also feel nausea or a sour taste in their mouths.
Gastritis
In this condition, which is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach, individuals tend to have a burning pain in the stomach or the upper abdomen area. Gastritis can be brought on by overuse of pain medications that cause irritation in the stomach. It can also be brought on by overuse of alcohol. Infection from bacteria can also cause gastritis and, as a result, indigestion.
Peptic Ulcers
Peptic ulcers are types of sores that develop in the lining of the stomach. These can also occur in the upper small intestine or esophagus. The pain can range from the breastbone area into the navel. This type of ulcer is brought on by a type of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori, or H. pylori. It may also be caused by taking too much over-the-counter medication including ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirins.
Gallstones
Gallstones are also a common condition that can cause indigestion-like feelings. These are small, solid stones that are made up of cholesterol or calcium salts. They occur within the gallbladder or in the bile ducts associated with the gallbladder. Most of the time, there are no symptoms and gallstones will pass on their own. In some people, they can lead to chronic indigestion, abdominal pain, vomiting, or nausea. This is when you need a Brooklyn gallstone doctor.
Stomach Cancer
A more serious condition that can be the underlying cause of indigestion is stomach cancer. In fact, indigestion is most commonly the first symptom you may face when you have a tumor located in the stomach. This type of condition is only detected, in most cases, after blood in stool samples is found. The symptoms can worsen over time as well.
If you have any type of chronic indigestion, do not put off getting help from our Brooklyn gastroenterologist at our office in Cobble Hill or on Ocean Parkway in Brooklyn, NY. This can be a very important step to protecting your overall health in the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions About Indigestion
What does indigestion feel like?
Indigestion, medically known as dyspepsia, is one of those uncomfortable gastrointestinal disorders we have experienced at some point. Indigestion often feels like discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen. Some people describe it as burning, fullness, bloating, or pressure after eating. You may also notice nausea, excessive burping, or an upset stomach. Indigestion is not a condition itself, but a collection of symptoms that indicate an underlying problem.
When should I consider seeing a gastroenterologist for indigestion?
Occasional indigestion is common. However, you should see a gastroenterologist if symptoms occur frequently, persist for more than a few weeks, or interfere with daily life. Seek care right away if indigestion comes with difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, vomiting, or persistent chest pain.
How is indigestion diagnosed?
When you visit your Brooklyn gastroenterologist, the first step is to discuss your symptoms and administer a physical exam. Depending on the symptoms, several tests may be ordered to determine the cause.
These include:
- Stool test
- Blood work
- Breath tests
- Imaging tests, such as MRIs or CT scans
Sometimes, we may recommend an upper endoscopy to examine the duodenum and inside of the stomach to uncover underlying issues, such as acid reflux, peptic ulcers, or inflammation.
Can stress trigger indigestion?
Yes. Stress and anxiety can affect how your digestive system works. Stress may increase stomach acid, slow digestion, or make you more sensitive to discomfort. While stress alone may not be the main cause, it can make indigestion symptoms worse or more frequent.
How long can indigestion last?
Indigestion may last minutes, hours, or longer, depending on the cause. Some episodes resolve quickly, while others may linger for days or weeks if triggered by an underlying digestive condition. Chronic or frequent indigestion should be evaluated by a GI doctor.
Can indigestion be a symptom of something serious?
Yes. Sometimes the cause of indigestion could be more than diet or lifestyle choices. The cause of your indigestion could be a sign of something serious, such as GERD, stomach ulcers, gallbladder disease, or stomach cancer. Rarely, it may be related to your heart health. Because the cause can be anything, you shouldn’t ignore ongoing or severe symptoms.
What are some common misconceptions about indigestion?
Many people think indigestion only happens after eating fatty or spicy foods, but it can occur after any meal, or even on an empty stomach. Another misconception is that indigestion is always acid reflux. While they are related, they are not the same condition and may require different treatments.
How does my GI specialist treat indigestion?
Treatment is guided by the root cause. Your doctor may recommend dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, or medications to improve digestion. The objective is to address the underlying cause to ensure the issue is resolved with finality.
What can I do to prevent indigestion?
Simple steps can help reduce symptoms. Eat smaller meals, avoid lying down right after eating, limit fatty or trigger foods, and reduce caffeine and alcohol. Additionally, stress management, exercise, and weight management can help improve digestion.
Recognizing triggers can go a long way in helping manage dyspepsia. Keep a simple food and symptom journal to help you spot patterns that worsen your symptoms.
I have indigestion—how can I schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist in Brooklyn?
Your digestive health matters. If you have persistent or severe indigestion, seek the support of a GI doctor today. Atlantic Gastroenterology diagnoses and treats several gastrointestinal disorders, including indigestion. Call 718 521-2840 and schedule an appointment with any of our offices in Brooklyn, New York, or Coral Springs, Florida.