If heartburn or acid regurgitation keeps occurring or if symptoms are annoying it is worth discussing the problem with your doctor.

A visit to the doctor is also warranted if your indigestion symptoms persist or get worse, of if you develop new digestive symptoms which you have not had before, as these may be caused by a digestive disorder which needs treatment.

In more severe cases of heartburn, dyspepsia or ulcers, powerful prescription medicines may be needed to treat your symptoms. Also, your doctor can provide a diagnosis, offer advice and treatment, and put your mind at rest that your medical problem is being addressed.

How can I recognise abnormal symptoms?
You should see your doctor if you experience the following symptoms, particularly if they are unexpected or persistent:

Abdominal pain before or after meals
Persistent feeling of fullness, boating or flatulence
Nausea or vomiting
Pain or difficulty swallowing
Loss of appetite
Continued unexplained weight loss
Indigestion developing for the first time in mid or later life
Persisting diarrhoea, constipation or any alteration in bowel habits
Change in your stools (bowel motions), especially if they become black, dark red, pale or contain mucous (slime)
Bleeding when you pass a stool
Pain when you pass a stool
Feeling that your bowels are emptying incompletely
Generally feeling tired, lethargic or unwell in association with any abdominal symptoms.

Do you have indigestion?
Remember always seek medical advice if you have…

Unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite
Difficulty swallowing
Vomiting blood or anything that looks like ground coffee
Bowel motions that contain blood - this makes your stools look tarry
Indigestion when taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

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