Tis the season of holiday get-togethers, dish-to-share requests, cookie exchange events and don’t forget all those office potlucks!

Sure, there are instances where overindulgence causes a little tummy chaos during the holiday season, but sometimes that indigestion is something more.

Indigestion is pain or discomfort in the stomach associated with difficulty digesting food and feeling too full. Indigestion can also cause acid reflux, which can cause pain in the esophagus just behind the breastbone.

Here are the top five signs it’s not just indigestion and you might need to see the doctor for that bad belly pain.

Pressure, tightness or squeezing instead of pain or burning

Most of us know what heartburn feels like, a burning sensation that can travel to the throat. Beware if you are feeling pressure or tightness in your chest, throat, arms and neck, as these are heart attack symptoms. 

Frequent vomiting

Stomach pain and vomiting are symptoms of several conditions, including food allergies, food poisoning, and gastroenteritis. While these symptoms can be treated at home, be sure to see your doctor if you cannot keep liquids down, as dehydration can become serious.

Extreme abdominal tenderness

Severe abdominal pain accompanied by tenderness to the touch can signify several serious conditions, including appendicitis, gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis) and a perforated ulcer. Make sure to consult a doctor if you experience severe abdominal pain and tenderness, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, fever, or changes in bowel habits.

Indigestion that won’t go away

We’ve all dealt with temporary indigestion, but if it lingers and lingers, it’s time to see a doctor, as you may have a treatable condition, like acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome, or peptic ulcer disease. 

Enlarged stomach

Visible outward swelling of the abdomen accompanied by pain, constipation, a feeling of fullness in the abdomen and vomiting can be a sign of a bowel obstruction and signs you should see your doctor.

Dr. Kristi Trussell, Assistant Medical Director of The Urgency Room.