Diagnosis and Tests for Indigestion

Many people with mild, short-lived indigestion need no tests. A doctor decides based on age, duration and alarm symptoms.

History and examination

• Questions on pain, meals, weight loss, vomiting, stools, medicines (especially painkillers), alcohol, smoking and family history
• Examination of the abdomen

When tests are advised

• Age over 55 with new symptoms
• Alarm features such as black stools, vomiting blood, difficulty swallowing, weight loss or anaemia
• Symptoms that persist or return despite treatment
• Strong family history of stomach cancer

Common tests

• H. pylori testing: breath test, stool antigen test or blood test, usually at endoscopy. Stop acid-lowering medicines or antibiotics for the period your doctor advises before the test.
• Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy: a thin camera looks at the food pipe, stomach and first part of the intestine. Biopsies may be taken.
• Blood tests: haemoglobin, liver and pancreas tests, and tests for if suspected