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Digestive discomfort is something almost everyone experiences from time to time. A heavy meal, carbonated drinks, or stress can leave you feeling bloated, uneasy, or gassy. While these symptoms are often harmless and temporary, they can sometimes overlap with signs of more serious medical conditions. The challenge lies in knowing when to brush it off and when to seek medical advice.
Dr. Shashank, an experienced gastroenterologist, explains how to recognize the difference between simple indigestion, gas, and symptoms that may point to a more serious issue.
Understanding Indigestion
Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is a common condition that describes discomfort in the upper abdomen. It can happen after eating too quickly, overeating, or consuming spicy, fatty, or oily foods.
Typical symptoms of indigestion include:
A burning sensation in the upper abdomen or chest (sometimes mistaken for heartburn)
Feeling full quickly or uncomfortably full after meals
Nausea or mild stomach upset
Burping or belching
Indigestion is usually short-lived and can often be managed with simple lifestyle adjustments like eating smaller meals, reducing stress, and avoiding foods that trigger discomfort. However, persistent or recurring indigestion should not be ignored, as it may be linked to ulcers, gastritis, or even reflux disease.
What Causes Gas and Bloating?
Gas is a normal part of digestion. Our digestive system naturally produces gas as food is broken down, and swallowing air while eating or drinking also adds to it. Passing gas or belching helps release this pressure, but sometimes gas can accumulate and cause bloating, cramping, or sharp pains.
Common causes of excessive gas include:
Eating too fast and swallowing air
Carbonated beverages
High-fiber foods like beans, cabbage, or lentils
Lactose intolerance or difficulty digesting certain foods
Artificial sweeteners (such as sorbitol)