Discomfort and pain in the upper abdomen and chest may be caused by many reasons.

Having excluded heart trouble, you may have been diagnosed with one or more of the following:

• indigestion, or reflux indigestion
• heartburn
• dyspepsia
• gastritis
• peptic, stomach or duodenal ulcer
• hiatus hernia
• pylori infection.

These conditions can have similar symptoms, which are related to inflammation of the food pipe (oesophagus), or damage to the lining of the stomach ‘refluxing’ back up into the oesophagus.

Symptoms may include:

• burning behind the breastbone
• nausea after food
• intense ‘hunger’ pains (even when you have just eaten)
• early fullness
• bloating after a meal
• retching or vomiting after a meal.

Below are some dietary and lifestyle recommendations. Following these guidelines can help you avoid symptoms and should be observed, along with taking any medications prescribed.

• Eat meals at regular times. Don not skip meals or go for long periods without eating.
• Eat slowly, and chew all foods well.
• Avoid over filling the stomach. Try to have drinks away from meal times. Eat “little and often”.
• Sit up when you are eating, and try not to bend down immediately after , or lie down within an hour of eating. Try raising the head end of the bed by six inches.
• Avoid tight clothing around the abdomen.
• Avoid caffeine, spicy and fatty foods and chewing gum. These can all contribute to ‘acid reflux’. Chocolate and peppermint can also cause problems.
• Lose weight if you are overweight.
• Try not to let stressful situations upset you.
• Avoid taking aspirin for headaches and colds. Take paracetamol instead.
• Avoid smoking.
• Try to exercise regularly as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Important note

Pain from the heart is also felt in the chest and upper abdomen.  Do not mistake serious pain for indigestion or heartburn. Pain from your heart is felt intensely, “vice like”, in the centre of the chest, spreading to one or both arms and into the lower jaw. If you suspect the pain is coming from your heart, consult your GP urgently or phone 999 in an emergency.