Indigestion Causes and Treatment
As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the value of swift diagnosis and treatment. This guide explores indigestion and how private medical insurance can offer peace of mind and faster access to care for new, acute symptoms in the UK.
WeCovr's guide to indigestion, when to worry, and private testing options
That uncomfortable, burning feeling in your chest after a rich meal. The bloating that makes you regret your last bite. Most of us in the UK have experienced indigestion at some point. It's usually harmless and short-lived, but when it becomes persistent or is accompanied by other symptoms, it can cause significant worry and disrupt your daily life.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about indigestion, or 'dyspepsia' as it's known in medical terms. We'll cover common causes, simple lifestyle changes, when you should speak to a doctor, and how private medical insurance can provide a vital shortcut to diagnosis and treatment.
What Exactly Is Indigestion?
First things first: indigestion isn't a disease in itself. It’s a symptom, or a collection of symptoms, related to the upper part of your digestive system. It describes a feeling of pain or discomfort in your upper abdomen (the area between your navel and the lower part of your breastbone).
According to the NHS, up to 40% of people in the UK experience indigestion each year, making it one of the most common reasons for visiting a GP. The symptoms can vary from person to person but typically include one or more of the following:
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Heartburn | A painful burning sensation in the chest, caused by stomach acid travelling up towards the throat (acid reflux). |
| Feeling Full | A sense of fullness during a meal, even if you haven't eaten much, or a prolonged feeling of fullness after eating. |
| Bloating | An uncomfortable feeling of tightness or swelling in your stomach. |
| Nausea | Feeling sick to your stomach, as if you might vomit. |
| Belching & Gas | Frequent burping or passing of wind. |
| Upper Abdominal Pain | A dull ache or sharp pain located in the upper part of the stomach. |
Most of the time, these symptoms are a direct result of something you've eaten or how you've eaten it. However, they can sometimes be a sign of an underlying medical issue.
Unpacking the Common Causes of Indigestion
Understanding what triggers your indigestion is the first step towards managing it. The causes can be broadly grouped into three categories: lifestyle, medications, and underlying medical conditions.
Lifestyle and Dietary Triggers
For many people, indigestion is a direct consequence of daily habits.
- Food Choices: Rich, fatty, greasy, or spicy foods are classic culprits. They can slow down digestion or increase stomach acid production.
- Eating Habits: Eating too much, too quickly, or lying down soon after a meal can put pressure on your stomach and allow acid to escape into your oesophagus.
- Drinks: Caffeine (in coffee, tea, and cola), alcohol, and fizzy drinks are known to relax the valve at the top of the stomach, leading to acid reflux.
- Stress and Anxiety: Your brain and your gut are closely linked. When you're stressed, your body can produce more stomach acid and slow down digestion, leading to discomfort.
- Smoking: Nicotine can weaken the muscle that controls the valve between the stomach and the oesophagus, making heartburn more likely.
- Being Overweight: Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, increases pressure on the stomach, which can force acid upwards.
Medications That Can Cause Indigestion
Certain common medications can irritate the lining of the stomach or oesophagus.
- NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): This group includes common painkillers like ibuprofen and aspirin.
- Certain Antibiotics: Some types can upset the balance of bacteria in your gut.
- Steroids: Often prescribed for inflammation, they can also irritate the stomach lining.
- Some Medicines for High Blood Pressure: A class of drugs called calcium channel blockers can sometimes cause indigestion.
If you suspect a medication is causing your symptoms, don't stop taking it. Speak to your GP or pharmacist first; they may be able to suggest an alternative or a way to protect your stomach.
Underlying Medical Conditions
When indigestion is persistent, frequent, or severe, it might be a sign of an underlying health problem.
- Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD): This is a more severe, long-term form of acid reflux. It occurs when the valve at the top of the stomach is weakened, allowing acid to constantly leak up and irritate the oesophagus.
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection: This is a common type of bacteria that can live in the stomach. In some people, it can cause inflammation (gastritis) and lead to indigestion, ulcers, and, in rare cases, an increased risk of stomach cancer.
- Peptic Ulcers: These are open sores that develop on the inside lining of your stomach (gastric ulcer) or the upper portion of your small intestine (duodenal ulcer). They often cause a burning stomach pain.
- Hiatus Hernia: This happens when part of your stomach pushes up into your chest through an opening in your diaphragm. It can make acid reflux more likely.
- Gallstones: Small stones, usually made of cholesterol, that form in the gallbladder. They can cause sudden, intense abdominal pain, especially after a fatty meal.
- Coeliac Disease: An autoimmune condition where your immune system attacks your own tissues when you eat gluten. This damages the gut and can cause indigestion, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps.
- Stomach Cancer: This is a very rare cause of indigestion, but it's why persistent, unexplained symptoms, especially in older adults, should always be investigated.
When to Worry: Red Flag Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore
While most indigestion is nothing to worry about, certain "red flag" symptoms warrant an urgent conversation with your GP. Don't delay in seeking medical advice if your indigestion is accompanied by any of the following:
- You are aged 55 or over and have developed new, persistent indigestion for no clear reason.
- Unintentional weight loss: Losing a significant amount of weight without trying.
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia): A feeling of food getting stuck in your throat or chest.
- Persistent vomiting: Especially if there is blood in your vomit, or it looks like dark coffee grounds.
- Iron deficiency anaemia: A low level of red blood cells, which can cause tiredness and shortness of breath.
- A lump or swelling in your upper abdomen.
- Black, tarry, or bloody stools: This can be a sign of bleeding in your digestive tract.
These symptoms don't automatically mean you have a serious condition, but they do need to be checked out promptly to rule out anything sinister.
How to Manage Indigestion at Home
For simple, occasional indigestion, there's a lot you can do to find relief without needing to see a doctor.
Simple Lifestyle and Diet Tweaks
Making small adjustments to your daily routine can have a big impact.
- Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Instead of three large meals, try five or six smaller ones. This prevents your stomach from becoming overstretched.
- Identify and Avoid Your Triggers: Keep a food diary for a couple of weeks to see if you can spot a pattern.
- Don't Eat Before Bed: Leave at least 3-4 hours between your last meal and lying down. This gives your stomach time to empty.
- Prop Your Head Up: Raise the head of your bed by 10-20cm using blocks or a wedge pillow. This uses gravity to help keep stomach acid down.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Losing even a small amount of excess weight can significantly reduce pressure on your stomach.
- Relax: Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as walking, yoga, or mindfulness.
A great way to track your intake and identify problem foods is by using a calorie and food tracking app. WeCovr offers its private health insurance clients complimentary access to CalorieHero, a powerful AI-driven app that makes it easy to monitor your diet and support your digestive health.
Over-the-Counter Pharmacy Remedies
If lifestyle changes aren't enough, your local pharmacy offers several effective treatments.
| Remedy Type | How It Works | Examples | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antacids | Neutralise stomach acid, providing fast but short-term relief. | Gaviscon, Rennie, Tums | Immediate relief from mild heartburn. |
| Alginates | Form a protective barrier or "raft" that floats on top of the stomach contents, preventing acid from rising. | Gaviscon Advance | Heartburn and acid reflux. |
| Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) | Reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces. They take longer to work but provide longer-lasting relief. | Omeprazole, Esomeprazole | Frequent or more severe symptoms (for short-term use without a prescription). |
The NHS Pathway vs. The Private Route
If your indigestion persists, you'll need to see a GP. Understanding the process can help you decide on the best course of action for you.
The Typical NHS Journey
- GP Appointment: You'll discuss your symptoms with your GP. They may suggest lifestyle changes and prescribe medication like a PPI for a month to see if it helps.
- Initial Tests: If symptoms don't improve or if there are red flags, your GP might arrange tests. This could be a blood test to check for anaemia or a stool or breath test to check for H. pylori bacteria.
- Referral to a Specialist: If necessary, your GP will refer you to a gastroenterologist (a specialist in digestive diseases) for further investigation.
- Endoscopy: The most common specialist test is a gastroscopy (a type of endoscopy), where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is passed down your throat to look at your oesophagus, stomach, and small intestine.
While the care provided by the NHS is excellent, waiting times for specialist appointments and diagnostic tests can be long. According to recent NHS England data, the median wait for key diagnostic tests can be several weeks, and the wait to see a consultant after a GP referral can be even longer.
How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Offers a Faster Alternative
This is where private medical insurance in the UK can be invaluable. It is designed to complement the NHS by providing faster access to diagnosis and treatment for new, acute conditions.
Crucially, it must be understood that standard private health cover does not pay for the treatment of pre-existing or chronic conditions. A chronic condition is one that is long-lasting and cannot be fully cured, such as GORD or coeliac disease. PMI is for acute conditions—illnesses that are likely to respond quickly to treatment and return you to your previous state of health.
For new and worrying indigestion symptoms, the benefits of PMI are clear:
| Feature | NHS Pathway | Private Pathway with PMI |
|---|---|---|
| GP Access | Can involve a wait for an appointment. | Many policies include 24/7 digital GP services for instant access. |
| Specialist Referral | Waiting lists can be weeks or months. | See a specialist of your choice, often within days. |
| Diagnostic Tests | Subject to NHS waiting times. | Tests like endoscopies can be scheduled quickly, sometimes within a week. |
| Choice & Comfort | You are treated at a designated NHS hospital. | You can choose your specialist and hospital, with access to a private room. |
By using private medical insurance, you can bypass the queues, get a diagnosis faster, and begin treatment sooner. This not only offers peace of mind but can lead to a quicker recovery. At WeCovr, we work as an expert PMI broker to help you compare policies and find the one that best suits your needs and budget, all at no cost to you.
Understanding Your Private Health Cover
If you're considering PMI, it's important to understand a few key terms.
- Underwriting: This is how an insurer assesses your medical history.
- Moratorium: You don't declare your full medical history upfront. The insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the last 5 years. This exclusion can be lifted if you remain symptom-free for a set period (usually 2 years) after your policy starts.
- Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide your full medical history. The insurer then decides what to cover and what to permanently exclude. It's more work initially but provides absolute clarity from day one.
- Outpatient Cover: This is a vital part of your policy for investigating indigestion. It covers specialist consultations and diagnostic tests that don't require an overnight hospital stay. Policies have different levels of outpatient cover, from a set monetary limit (e.g., £1,000) to full cover.
- Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim before the insurer pays the rest. A higher excess typically means a lower monthly premium.
Choosing the Best PMI Provider for You
The UK private medical insurance market has several excellent providers, each with unique strengths.
| Provider | Key Features for Digestive Health | Wellness Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Aviva | Strong core cover, often with good outpatient and diagnostic options. Known for their "Expert Select" hospital list to manage costs. | Offers access to their Aviva Wellbeing app and stress counselling helplines. |
| AXA Health | Excellent diagnostics cover and access to a broad network of specialists and hospitals. Their "Fast Track" appointments service is highly rated. | Access to their Doctor@Hand digital GP service and ActivePlus for physio, often included. |
| Bupa | The UK's largest provider with an extensive network. Offers various levels of cover, including options for comprehensive cancer care if diagnosed. | Provides a 24/7 Anytime HealthLine and access to mental health support. |
| Vitality | Unique approach that rewards healthy living. Members can earn discounts on their premium and other rewards for being active. | Heavily focused on wellness, tracking activity, and providing incentives. Great for proactive individuals. |
Navigating these options can be complex. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can demystify the process, comparing the market on your behalf to find the best policy for your circumstances. Better yet, if you purchase a PMI or Life Insurance policy through WeCovr, you may be eligible for discounts on other types of cover.
Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing indigestion?
Is GORD (Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease) considered a chronic condition by insurers?
Can I get a private endoscopy without a GP referral?
How can a PMI broker like WeCovr help me?
Indigestion is common, but you don't have to suffer in silence or wait in worry. By understanding the causes and knowing your options, you can take control of your digestive health.
Ready to explore how private medical insurance can give you fast access to the care you need? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our experts find the perfect cover for you.
Related guides
Why private medical insurance and how does it work?
What is Private Medical Insurance?
Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.How does it work?
Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment
Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.
Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance
Just ask yourself:👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
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Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.
Benefits offered by private medical insurance
Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.
Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.
Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.
Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.
Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.
Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.
Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.
Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.
Important Fact!
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!
Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?
👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.
Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.
It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.
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