Indigestion

This term covers a variety of digestive symptoms, such as a burning pain or sensation in the centre of the chest, wind or nausea. Indigestion can be caused by eating too much food or eating too quickly, by eating very rich, spicy or fatty foods, or by stress (which increases the production of stomach acids).

Indigestion is easily treated by avoiding whatever brings it on, eating smaller meals more frequently, eating more slowly, taking antacid drugs (eg. Rennies, Gaviscon or Milk of Magnesia) or drinking milk to relieve the symptoms.

If the pain persists, if you find that over-the-counter remedies don't help, or if the pain is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, nausea or passing black tarry stools, see your doctor.