Dyspepsia: What It Feels Like and What You Can Do Today

Got that uncomfortable fullness, upper belly ache, or burning after meals? That’s dyspepsia — a common name for indigestion. It can be short-lived or keep coming back. The good news: many cases improve with simple changes and safe over-the-counter options.

Typical signs to watch for are bloating, early fullness while eating, burping, nausea, and a burning or aching feeling under the ribs. If food sits heavy or you get heartburn along with these, that often points to acid-related problems. If you’ve also lost weight without trying, vomit often, or notice blood in stool, get medical help fast.

Common causes and quick fixes

Dyspepsia can come from different things: acid reflux, gastritis, stomach ulcers, certain medicines (like NSAIDs), H. pylori infection, delayed stomach emptying (gastroparesis), or just functional dyspepsia where tests look normal but symptoms persist. Start with easy, practical steps: eat smaller meals, slow down while eating, cut back on fatty or spicy foods, reduce caffeine and alcohol, and quit smoking if you can. These often cut symptoms a lot.

Also look at meds you take. Ibuprofen and some supplements can irritate the stomach. Try switching to acetaminophen for pain if that’s safe for you, or talk to your clinician about alternatives.

Medicines, safety notes, and when to see a doctor

Over-the-counter antacids help fast for occasional symptoms. H2 blockers like famotidine can reduce acid for mild recurring indigestion, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) work for more persistent acid problems. Prokinetic drugs that speed stomach emptying can help when gastroparesis is the issue, but some — like domperidone — have safety concerns and are restricted in places. Metoclopramide also comes with side effects if used long-term. Always talk to a clinician before starting these.

If symptoms start suddenly after age 55, keep getting worse, or include alarming signs (weight loss, vomiting, blood), you’ll likely need tests: H. pylori testing, blood work, or endoscopy. Treatment depends on the cause — antibiotics for H. pylori, stopping an offending medicine, or targeted therapy for motility problems.

One more practical tip: if you consider buying meds online, use licensed, well-reviewed pharmacies and never skip a prescription requirement. Our site covers safe buying tips and alternatives for common dyspepsia-related drugs, so check those guides for up-to-date advice.

Try lifestyle fixes for a couple of weeks. If you still wake up uncomfortable, book an appointment. With the right steps, most people get real relief without big tests or risky treatments.