Overeating during the holidays, especially if you are indulging in a great meal at Hennen’s Steakhouse, is common, but having nagging digestive upset and pain afterwards is not. How do you know if your symptoms are normal or if you need to seek medical care and treatment? This blog will help you understand the differences between indigestion and pancreatitis, what the symptoms for each are, and when to seek an AFC urgent care center for treatment and relief.
People confuse pancreatitis and indigestion because both can cause upper abdominal pain and digestive discomfort. However, pancreatitis is a more severe condition involving inflammation of the pancreas, whereas indigestion is a general term for various discomforts like bloating, fullness, or burning after eating. While symptoms of indigestion are often temporary and related to diet, pancreatitis pain is typically more intense and can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fever, and pain radiating to the back, requiring prompt medical attention.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Hixson today!
What Is Indigestion?
Indigestion, also called dyspepsia, is a general term for discomfort in the upper abdomen, especially after eating. It’s often triggered by overeating, eating too quickly, or consuming spicy, fatty, or acidic foods. While uncomfortable, indigestion is usually mild and temporary.
Symptoms of Indigestion
Common symptoms of indigestion include:
- A painful or burning feeling in the chest or upper abdomen
- Bloating or fullness after eating
- A sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- Mild nausea
- Belching or gas
Most people experience indigestion occasionally, and symptoms typically resolve on their own or with simple at-home care.
What Is Pancreatitis?
The digestive system has lots of moving parts to help it function properly, and one key yet overlooked organ in the system is the pancreas. The pancreas produces enzymes that help digestion and produce hormones that help the body process sugar.
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas; an important digestive organ located between the stomach and spine that produces enzymes and hormones. Unlike indigestion, pancreatitis is a serious medical condition that can be acute (sudden) or chronic (long-term) and may become life-threatening without treatment.
Risk factors include excessive alcohol use, smoking, obesity, diabetes, and certain genetic conditions.
Symptoms of Pancreatitis
Symptoms of acute pancreatitis often include:
- Severe upper abdominal pain
- Pain that radiates to the back
- Abdominal tenderness
- Fever
- Rapid pulse
- Nausea and vomiting
Symptoms of chronic pancreatitis may include:
- Severe upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Rapid pulse
- Jaundice
- Unintentional weight loss
- Diabetes
These symptoms typically do not improve with time or antacids and require prompt medical care.
How Indigestion and Pancreatitis Are Different
Although both conditions share symptoms like upper abdominal pain and bloating, key differences include:
- Intensity of pain: Indigestion causes discomfort, while pancreatitis often causes sharp, severe pain.
- Duration: Indigestion usually improves with rest or diet changes; pancreatitis symptoms persist or worsen.
- Additional symptoms: Fever, vomiting, and radiating back pain are red flags for pancreatitis.
- Seriousness: Indigestion can be managed at home, but pancreatitis is a medical emergency requiring diagnosis and treatment.
When to Seek Medical Treatment
Seek urgent care if your indigestion symptoms are mild but persistent, or if you need help identifying the cause of your abdominal discomfort.
Go to AFC Urgent Care or the ER immediately if you experience:
- Severe or worsening upper abdominal pain
- Fever, nausea, or vomiting
- Pain radiating to your back
- Inability to keep fluids down
- Signs of dehydration
If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are from indigestion or pancreatitis, it’s safest to get evaluated. For fast, accurate diagnosis, book an appointment today with AFC Urgent Care of Hixson.
Treatment
Indigestion Treatment at AFC Urgent Care
Our providers diagnose indigestion through a physical exam and questions about your symptoms, eating habits, and medical history. Treatment may include:
- Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription antacids, H2 blockers, or PPIs
- Antibiotics: If indigestion is linked to an infection, such as gastritis or H. pylori
- Diet and lifestyle recommendations: Avoiding trigger foods, improving meal habits, reducing caffeine or alcohol
Pancreatitis Treatment
Pancreatitis requires medical evaluation and often hospital-level care. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, managing pain, and addressing the underlying cause. Because pancreatitis can progress quickly, early diagnosis is essential.
Prevention
Preventing Indigestion
Eating smaller, slower meals and avoiding overeating can help prevent indigestion. Limiting greasy, spicy foods and reducing caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks also eases digestion. Managing stress and keeping regular mealtimes further supports digestive comfort.
Preventing Pancreatitis
Limiting alcohol intake can lower your risk of pancreatitis. Quitting smoking also helps protect the pancreas. Maintaining a healthy weight and managing diabetes and triglyceride levels further reduce risk. If you have a history of gallstones or pancreatic issues, following your medical provider’s guidance is especially important.
Suffering from Digestive Upset? Visit AFC Urgent Care Today
Distinguishing between indigestion and pancreatitis can be challenging, especially when symptoms overlap. If you’re experiencing persistent upper abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, or discomfort after overeating, our AFC Urgent Care team is here to help. We provide fast, reliable evaluation and treatment to help you feel better and rule out more serious conditions like pancreatitis.
Visit our local urgent care center for digestive relief at AFC Urgent Care. Our experienced providers will help you recover quickly so you can get back to feeling your best.
