KUALA LUMPUR, March 13 (Bernama) -- The upcoming festive season, often marked by frequent feasting, may increase the risk of dyspepsia or indigestion, as repeated heavy meals within short intervals can place significant strain on the upper digestive system.
Sunway Medical Centre Velocity (SMCV), in a statement today, said dyspepsia affects an estimated 15 to 25 per cent of Malaysians, making it one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints nationwide.
“Dyspepsia refers to a group of upper gastrointestinal symptoms originating from the stomach or the proximal small intestine.
“It may occur without any structural abnormality, known as functional dyspepsia, or alongside conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcer disease or gastroesophageal reflux disease. Patients commonly experience upper abdominal bloating, early satiety, acid-related burning or discomfort in the upper abdomen, nausea and excessive belching,” said the statement.
SMCV Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist Dr Deborah Chew Chia Hsin said festive periods frequently coincide with a rise in upper abdominal symptoms, noting that a noticeable increase in patients experiencing gastric issues is commonly observed during such celebrations.
“Many people attribute it to simple overeating, but symptoms that persist or recur may indicate an underlying condition that warrants evaluation,” she said.
She added that certain individuals are more vulnerable to experiencing dyspepsia, particularly during festive periods, including those with existing functional dyspepsia, gastritis, reflux disease, diabetic patients who can delay gastric emptying and those with anxiety, who may experience heightened perception of gastric discomfort.
Dr Deborah explained that repeated heavy meals over a short period place cumulative strain on the stomach, especially when dishes are high in fat.
“Coconut milk-based dishes such as rendang prolong the time food remains in the stomach, while large meal portions further increase intragastric pressure as the stomach expands, often resulting in bloating and a prolonged feeling of fullness,” she said.
She said sweet desserts and sugary beverages add to this digestive burden by increasing osmotic load, while carbonated drinks introduce excess gas that worsens distension. Spicy food contains compounds such as capsaicin that can trigger heat and pain receptors, particularly in sensitive individuals.
She advised waiting at least two to three hours after a heavy meal before lying down or going to bed, as lying down too soon can slow digestion and increase reflux of stomach contents into the oesophagus, which heightens burning, bloating, and discomfort.
Although festive-related indigestion is often temporary, it is important to distinguish normal digestive discomfort from symptoms that require medical attention. Normal indigestion usually subsides within a few hours after a meal or with simple dietary adjustments.
Persistent symptoms that last beyond 2–3 weeks, progressively worsen, or are accompanied by warning signs such as unexplained weight loss, anaemia, black stools, persistent vomiting, or progressive difficulty swallowing, warrant medical evaluation.
Dr Deborah explained that in selected cases where symptoms remain unexplained despite routine investigations such as clinical review, blood tests, Helicobacter pylori testing and upper endoscopy, doctors may recommend Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS).
“EUS essentially combines two technologies in a single instrument and is used to evaluate pancreatic masses, assessing bile duct abnormalities, and investigating unexplained thickening in the stomach wall. It also allows precise fine needle biopsies guided by ultrasound imaging,” she said.
Because of its ability to deliver detailed imaging and guide targeted tissue sampling, EUS is often recommended when symptoms persist, but routine investigations remain inconclusive. By providing a clearer view of deeper digestive structures, this advanced diagnostic technique helps doctors detect underlying conditions more accurately and determine the most appropriate next steps for patient care.
Once serious conditions are excluded, the treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving gastric function. Medications may be prescribed to reduce acid-related irritation or support gastric motility, depending on the patient’s presentation.
Where an infection such as Helicobacter pylori is identified, targeted treatment is required. In most cases, however, symptoms improve with appropriate medical guidance and dietary adjustment.
Beyond medication, prevention remains the most effective strategy during festive periods. Dr Deborah advises practising portion control, pacing meals and allowing adequate time between heavy dishes.
Probiotics may benefit selected individuals, particularly those prone to bloating, by supporting gut balance during sudden dietary changes.
Dr Deborah emphasises that while festive indulgence is part of the celebration, awareness and moderation are what sustain long-term digestive comfort.
-- BERNAMA
