Ask an expert: Can indigestion be linked to anxiety or heart problems?

In this informative article, highly respected consultant gastroenterologist Dr Raj Krishnamoorthy shares his expert insight on the relationship between anxiety and symptoms of indigestion. The revered specialist also details how symptoms of heart problems differ from the signs of indigestion and explains which foods typically trigger bouts of indigestion.

What is indigestion?

Indigestion is a very common term which describes quite a broad range of symptoms. Its medical name is dyspepsia and typically it relates to an abnormal sensation in the stomach or the upper part of the tummy area, as well as pain or discomfort. Indigestion is caused by food contents or stomach acid and can cause some uncomfortable symptoms and irritate the protective lining of the stomach.

Can indigestion be related to anxiety?

There are many gastric symptoms which are linked to how a person feels and anxiety can overlap in many areas. Although not directly related, indigestion can accompany anxiety in some people. While anxiety is not the direct cause of indigestion, there is sometimes an association.

Why do I feel like my heart is affected by my indigestion?

Sometimes symptoms of indigestion can feel as though they involve the heart, which can be worrying. However, it’s important to understand that rather than heart being under pressure, it is merely situated in the same area as the gullet (the food pipe). This tube sits at the back of the chest close to where the heart is located and because of this, symptoms of heart problems and indigestion can sometimes become overlapped.

Being aware of the difference in symptoms of cardiac problems and indigestion is essential. Any symptoms which are characterised by a burning sensation in the middle of the chest, particularly after meals, are linked to heartburn and indigestion.

Cardiac problems are slightly different and are generally more serious and acute. They may present as pain after exertion which can extend up to the jaw or radiate to the left arm and may also be accompanied by sweating. Although there is some overlap between these symptoms, it’s important to differentiate between them. If in doubt, however, it’s always safer to get checked out.

What foods should I avoid if I suffer from indigestion on a regular basis?

There is quite a broad range of foods which can worsen symptoms of indigestion but usually caffeinated beverages, spicy foods, fatty foods and fried foods are implicated. Although these foods are commonly linked to indigestion, this can vary from person to person and so identifying any patterns is very useful in order to avoid triggers.

How is indigestion detected and treated?

When someone presents with indigestion, it’s important to establish their pattern of symptoms including how this relates to meals, if symptoms occur at night and whether they affect their daily routine. Assessing this helps us to quantify the severity of a person’s symptoms of indigestion.

Treatment for indigestion varies depending on the cause. If symptoms occur on and off, this may only require acid suppression medication taken on an ‘as and when needed’ basis. On the other hand, frequent and severe bouts of indigestion will require medical attention and further tests.

If you are concerned about recurrent indigestion and wish to schedule a consultation with Dr Krishnamoorthy, you can do so by visiting his Top Doctors profile.