Diet is most often the cause of gas and indigestion. When it is accompanied by indigestion — a term that often describes a wide variety of stomach pains, not just difficulty digesting — the resulting discomfort can often be remedied through over the counter medications. Aside from diet, anxiety, nervousness, and stress can all cause gas and indigestion, as can other physical conditions such as a hernia. If gas and indigestion persists for more than a day, or if the pain worsens or spreads, one should consult a doctor to discover the root of the problem.
Eating a diet that is rich in dairy or sugar can cause gas and indigestion in some people, even people who are not lactose intolerant. Cheeses, milk, ice cream, and other products made from milk can lead to stomach pains, and gas may also result from consuming these products. Other foods, too, can cause gas and indigestion, and there is not always a pattern as to which foods will cause pain. Spicy foods may cause indigestion in some people, but those same people might eat spicy food again and feel just fine. In many cases, however, a pattern may develop; if a person eats spicy food, for example, and gets indigestion, he or she should pay attention next time he or she eats spicy foods to see if gas and indigestion results. Very often the body will react similarly in each instance.
High stress levels, anxiety, and fear can cause gas and indigestion. Some people call this condition a nervous stomach, as nervousness or stress can cause discomfort and gas. The stress does not necessarily need to be a constant or recurring stress, either; isolated incidents of stress can cause one to feel pain in the stomach, or it may even cause headaches. if the condition persists or occurs regularly, one might consider analyzing the sources of the stress or anxiety and working toward eliminating or reducing it. Very often the pain will subside as stress and anxiety levels drop.
More serious conditions can also lead to indigestion and sometimes gas. A hiatal hernia, for example, can cause severe discomfort in the stomach. A hiatal hernia occurs when a part of the stomach pushes through the abdomen in an unnatural manner, causing pain or discomfort throughout the stomach. Many people who experience this type of hernia complain of indigestion, acid reflux, or a burning sensation in the stomach.