A burning feeling in your chest or discomfort in your upper abdomen can be unpleasant, especially when you’re unsure what’s causing it. While heartburn and indigestion are often used interchangeably, they describe different symptoms and may have different underlying causes.
Understanding the differences between these two can help you manage your symptoms and know when to seek medical advice. This article explains how to tell heartburn and indigestion apart, what commonly triggers them, and when you should consult a doctor.
How do you distinguish heartburn vs indigestion?
Although heartburn and indigestion can occur together, they affect different parts of the digestive system.
According to the National University Health System (NUHS), approximately 15% to 20% of Singapore’s population experiences Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), a chronic condition in which heartburn is the most common symptom.
Because GERD is relatively common, recognising heartburn symptoms can help you identify when they may require medical assessment.
Heartburn
Heartburn is caused by stomach acid flowing back into the oesophagus (food pipe), irritating its lining. Common symptoms include:
- A burning sensation behind the breastbone or in the throat
- A sour or acidic taste in the mouth
- Acid or stomach contents coming back up into the mouth (regurgitation)
- Symptoms that become worse after meals, when lying down, or when bending over
- Discomfort that may sometimes be mistaken for chest pain
Indigestion (Dyspepsia)
Indigestion mainly affects the upper abdomen and often occurs during or shortly after eating. Symptoms may include:
- Pain or burning in the upper abdomen (epigastric area)
- Feeling full after eating only a small amount
- Bloating
- Excessive gas
- Frequent burping
- Nausea
Some people experience both heartburn and indigestion at the same time, particularly if GERD is contributing to their symptoms.
What triggers heartburn vs indigestion?
Although the symptoms differ, some triggers overlap.
Heartburn usually occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus because the lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS), the muscle that normally prevents reflux, does not close properly. It is commonly associated with GERD.
Indigestion has a wider range of possible causes. It may develop after eating large meals, eating too quickly, consuming fatty or spicy foods, or drinking alcohol. It may also be associated with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), stomach ulcers, gastritis, or GERD.
In some cases, doctors cannot identify a clear cause despite medical evaluation.
What causes heartburn?
Heartburn develops when acidic stomach contents move upwards into the oesophagus. Factors that can contribute include:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Being overweight or obese
- Pregnancy
- Large or high-fat meals
- Spicy foods, chocolate, peppermint, caffeine, or alcohol in some individuals
- Smoking
- Lying down soon after eating
- Certain medications that relax the lower oesophageal sphincter
While occasional heartburn is common, symptoms that occur frequently or interfere with daily life may require further assessment.
What causes indigestion?
Indigestion may stem from lifestyle habits, digestive conditions, or other medical issues. Common causes include:
- Eating too quickly
- Large meals
- Fatty, greasy, or spicy foods
- Excess alcohol or caffeine
- Emotional stress
- Gastritis
- Peptic ulcers
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Certain medications, such as anti-inflammatory pain relievers
If you notice indigestion that is persistent, new, or worsening, it is a good idea to check in with your doctor.
Are there first aid treatments for heartburn and indigestion?
You can try a few simple steps at home to ease mild symptoms, especially while you decide whether to see a doctor.
Medications like antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), or H2 blockers can help some people feel better. Use these only as directed by your doctor or the package instructions, since not every medication is right for everyone.
First aid for heartburn
If you develop heartburn, you may find it helpful to:
- Sit upright rather than lying down
- Avoid eating another large meal immediately
- Loosen tight clothing around the waist
- Avoid lying down for at least two to three hours after eating
- Identify foods or drinks that appear to trigger your symptoms
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large portions
If heartburn keeps coming back, talk to your doctor to make sure you are addressing the underlying cause.
First aid for indigestion
To deal with indigestion, you may consider:
- Eating slowly and chewing food thoroughly
- Choosing smaller meals throughout the day
- Limiting foods that seem to worsen your symptoms
- Avoiding excessive alcohol intake
- Reducing stress where possible
- Remaining upright after meals
Keeping a food and symptom diary may also help you identify patterns to discuss with your doctor.
When should you consult a doctor?
Occasional heartburn or indigestion may improve with lifestyle adjustments. However, you should arrange a medical assessment if:
- Symptoms occur frequently or persist despite lifestyle changes
- You need antacids regularly to control symptoms
- Symptoms interfere with eating or sleeping
- You have difficulty or pain when swallowing
- You experience persistent vomiting
- You vomit blood or notice black, tarry stools
- You have unexplained weight loss
- You develop persistent abdominal pain
- Your symptoms begin after the age of 40 or suddenly change in pattern
These symptoms could signal a digestive condition that a doctor should check.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can heartburn and indigestion happen at the same time?
Yes. Some digestive conditions, particularly GERD, can cause both heartburn and indigestion. Your doctor can help determine whether one condition or multiple factors are contributing to your symptoms.
Is heartburn always caused by GERD?
No. Occasional heartburn can occur after certain meals or lifestyle habits. However, frequent or recurring heartburn may signal GERD and should be evaluated by a doctor.
Can stress cause indigestion?
Stress does not directly cause all cases of indigestion, but it may worsen digestive symptoms in some people and contribute to discomfort alongside other underlying conditions.
Talk to a gastroenterologist about heartburn or indigestion
Heartburn and indigestion may share similar triggers, but they are different symptoms and can have different underlying causes. If your symptoms are persistent, recurrent, or affecting your daily life, an assessment can help identify the cause and determine whether further investigation or treatment is appropriate.
Dr Lin Cui Li can assess conditions affecting the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), liver, biliary system, and pancreas. You may book a consultation with Dr Lin Cui Li if you need a digestive system assessment.
