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GERD VS Indigestion: What’s the Difference?

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Gastrointestinal issues are common, affecting millions of people worldwide. Understanding the difference between various conditions is essential for proper diagnosis and effective management. Two frequently confused conditions are Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and indigestion, also known as dyspepsia. Most people believe GERD and indigestion to be the same disease due to their similar symptoms. However, GERD and indigestion are two different conditions. Let’s explore the key differences between two conditions to help you better understand each condition. ¹⸴²⸴³⸴⁴⸴⁵⸴⁶

 

What Are GERD and Indigestion? ¹⸴³

 

GERD is a chronic condition where stomach acid often flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation of the lining.

 

Indigestion refers to discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, often occurring after eating. Unlike GERD, indigestion is not a disease, it is more towards a symptom of various underlying conditions such as overeating, stress or etc. 

Key Differences Between GERD and Indigestion ¹⸴²⸴³⸴⁴⸴⁵⸴⁶

 

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)

Key features

Indigestion (Dyspepsia)

  • Chronic condition caused by acid reflux into the esophagus. 

Nature 

  • Temporary discomfort in the upper abdomen often related to eating or stress.
  • Burning sensation in the chest (Heartburn)
  • Acid Regurgitation (sour or bitter liquid in the throat)
  • Non-cardiac chest pain 
  • Nausea
  • Difficulty swallowing, chronic cough, or throat irritation.

Symptoms 

  • Bloating or a feeling of fullness in the upper abdomen
  • Burping and nausea
  • Upper abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Growling stomach
  • Mild, occasional heartburn (less common than in GERD)
  • Chronic, recurring several times a week.

Duration

  • Episodic, temporary, often related to triggers. 
  • Weakness in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.

Causes

  • Overeating, stress or other underlying conditions such as GERD, Irritable bowel syndromes (IBS) etc. 
  • Consuming trigger foods such as spicy, fatty, or acidic foods
  • Eating large meals or lying down immediately after eating
  • Alcohol, caffeine or carbonated beverages
  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy
  • Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Triggers

  • Overeating or eating too quickly
  • Consuming rich, fatty, or spicy foods
  • Alcohol, caffeine, or carbonated beverages.
  • Stress or anxiety.
  • Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
  • Lifestyle changes: Eating smaller but frequent meals, elevating the head of the bed, avoiding trigger foods, avoiding tight-fitting clothes, quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight etc.

  • Medications: Antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid.

  • Surgery: Surgeons may suggest procedures such as fundoplication for severe cases. 

Management

  • Lifestyle changes: Eating smaller but frequent meals, eating slowly and chewing well, avoiding trigger foods, stress management etc.

  • Medications: Antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid; prokinetics 

 

When to see a doctor? ⁵

 

Both GERD and indigestion can usually be managed with lifestyle changes and treating medications. However, certain symptoms may warrant immediate medical attention & indicate a more serious medical condition, such as a peptic ulcer, gallstones, or even cardiac issues:

 

  • Persistent or severe abdominal pain
  • Difficulty swallowing which is worsening
  • Unintentional weight loss or loss of appetite
  • Vomiting blood or black, tarry stools.
  • Chest pain that radiates to the arm, neck, or jaw.
  • Symptoms that last more than 2 weeks and do not improve with standard treatments.

 

Conclusion

 

While GERD and indigestion may share some overlapping symptoms, they are fundamentally two distinct conditions. Proper diagnosis and tailored treatment are important for effective management and improving quality of life. If you are unsure or require further guidance, do feel free to approach your friendly pharmacists at the nearest CARiNG store. 

 

References 

  1. Indigestion. Mayo Clinic. (Web accessed January 2025). Web link : https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/indigestion/symptoms-causes/syc-20352211
  2. Indigestion. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (Web accessed January 2025). Web link: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/indigestion-dyspepsia/symptoms-causes
  3. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Mayo clinic. (Web accessed Jan 2025). Web link: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gerd/symptoms-causes/syc-20361940
  4. What to know about GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). MedicalNewsToday. (Web accessed Jan 2025). Web link: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/14085#prevention
  5. The difference between heartburn and indigestion. Healthline. (Web accessed Jan 2025). Web link: https://www.healthline.com/health/heartburn-vs-indigestion
  6. Differences Between GERD and Indigestion That You Must Know. Siloam Hospital. (Web accessed Jan 2025). Web link: https://www.siloamhospitals.com/en/informasi-siloam/artikel/differences-between-gerd-and-indigestion-that-you-must-know

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