Indigestion: Causes, Symptoms & Remedies
Relief and practical advice from your local pharmacy team.
Gowerton Pharmacy - Helping the local community in Gowerton, Penclawdd, Loughor, Llanmorlais, Crofty and beyond.
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About Us
Indigestion falls under the Common Ailments services in Wales. Visit your the pharmacy today to find out how we can help ease the discomfort and pain associated with this condition. From over-the-counter remedies to medical treatments, the options are vast. Don't let indigestion ruin your day, seek help from your local healthcare provider.
Fast relief options
Relief Options & When to Seek Care
Indigestion is a common problem often caused by overeating, spicy or fatty foods, stress, or acid reflux. Over-the-counter antacids, alginates and acid reducers can offer fast relief, while lifestyle adjustments—smaller meals, avoiding triggers, and not lying down after eating—reduce recurrences. If symptoms are persistent, severe, or accompanied by weight loss, vomiting or chest pain, seek medical assessment. Your pharmacist can advise on suitable OTC treatments, possible drug interactions, and when to refer to a GP for further tests.
Heartburn and acid reflux
Eating too quickly
OTC antacids and remedies
Lifestyle changes help long-term
Causes
Overeating, fatty foods, stress and reflux are typical triggers.
Treatment
Antacids, alginates, and acid reducers provide varying relief.
When to Seek Help
Urgent care for severe chest pain or persistent vomiting.
Key Points for Managing Indigestion
Simple lifestyle changes often reduce indigestion: eat slowly, avoid trigger foods and large meals, cut down on caffeine and alcohol, and manage stress. Maintain a healthy weight and stop smoking to lower reflux risk. Over-the-counter antacids or alginates can be used for immediate symptom control, while acid-suppressing medicines are useful for frequent symptoms. If over-the-counter treatments aren’t effective or signs are worrying, see a GP for further assessment and testing.
Avoid spicy and fatty foods
Eat smaller, frequent meals
Avoid lying down after meals
Try antacids for fast relief
Indigestion FAQs
Answers to common questions about indigestion and practical steps you can take.
What causes indigestion?
Common causes include overeating, greasy or spicy foods, stress, and acid reflux. Some medicines and smoking can also contribute.
How can I get quick relief?
Antacids or alginate-based products can neutralise acid and ease burning quickly. Sip water and avoid lying down after eating.
When should I see a doctor?
See your GP if symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by weight loss, vomiting, black stools or chest pain.
Are there long-term treatments?
For frequent symptoms, proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers may be prescribed; lifestyle changes are also important.
Can a pharmacist help?
Yes. Pharmacists advise on OTC options, interactions, and when to refer for medical review.
Pharmacy support
How We Can Help
Your pharmacist can offer confidential, practical advice about indigestion, recommend suitable over-the-counter products, and check for interactions with other medicines. We can explain how to take antacids, alginates and acid suppressants safely, and advise when symptoms need a GP review. If you have repeated problems, a pharmacist can help identify triggers and suggest lifestyle measures. Many pharmacies also offer private consultations for a focused review and personalised treatment recommendations.
Need immediate relief?
Quick Tips
Try antacids for quick symptom relief, sip water, and avoid trigger foods. Seek urgent care for severe chest pain, sudden breathlessness, repeated vomiting, or black stools.