Diagnosis of Indigestion

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For most people, indigestion in mild and infrequent. More serious attacks can usually be managed with over-the-counter treatments.

If you have sudden, short bouts of indigestion, or it is very painful and long lasting, this may be a sign of an underlying problem. You should see your GP if you have any of the following symptoms as well as indigestion:

unintended weight loss,
new symptoms in anyone over 45 years old who has not previously suffered any indigestion problems, or
severe pain.

When you see your GP they will ask you about your symptoms and probably examine your abdomen. Your GP will also ask you about any medicines you are taking in case one is causing the symptoms or making them worse.

If you keep getting bouts of indigestion, you may have a test to see if you are infected with H.pylori. Normally a pea-sized sample of your faeces (stools) is tested for the bacteria. Alternatively, a sample of your breath is tested for the bacteria after you have had a special drink.

Itâ€™s very important to get urgent medical treatment if:

you have specks of blood or blood that looks like coffee-grounds in your vomit, or
you are vomiting fresh, red blood.