Causes and Risk Factors

Indigestion is typically caused by excessive secretion of stomach acids. The stomach produces gastric juices or acids that aid in digestion and protect against infection. A layer of mucus lines the stomach, esophagus, and intestines and acts as a barrier against these acids so that they do not irritate the surrounding tissues. When this mucus lining is inflamed because of an excessive secretion of stomach acids, indigestion occurs.

There are several causes of indigestion. It may be caused by any disease of the digestive tract such as gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome, peptic ulcer, colitis, and gallstones. Overeating is also one of the major causes of indigestion. Eating certain foods that do not react well with the body may also cause indigestion. It is the body’s way of displaying warning signs. Other causes and risk factors of indigestion include pregnancy, alcoholism, smoking, having irregular meals, stress and anxiety, and side effects of certain drugs such as anti-inflammatory medicines for arthritis like aspirin.