Functional Dyspepsia: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Introduction

Functional dyspepsia is a disorder of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract marked by persistent and chronic abdominal symptoms, such as nausea, bloating, fullness, burning, and pain after eating. The condition affects approximately one in five adults and can cause considerable stress, fatigue, and a decrease in quality of life. Despite the prevalence of functional dyspepsia, the exact cause of this disorder is unknown, and there is no definitive diagnostic test. As such, diagnosis is based on excluding other conditions after a thorough physical exam and medical history. This article discusses what is known about functional dyspepsia, its causes, symptoms, and potential treatments.

Causes

The exact cause of functional dyspepsia is unknown. Researchers believe it is related to polysensorial dysregulation and is potentially triggered by various factors, such as:

• Stress: Stress may cause the brain to alter how it processes and responds to sensations from the stomach, leading to symptoms.
• Diet: Spicy, high-fat, or acidic foods can irritate the stomach and increase the chances of developing functional dyspepsia.
• Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) can lead to symptoms of dyspepsia, particularly with continued use.
• H. pylori bacteria: This bacteria is present in the stomach of some people and can cause inflammation and symptoms similar to functional dyspepsia.

Symptoms

The symptoms of functional dyspepsia can vary greatly and can make life difficult. Common symptoms include:

• nausea
• abdominal pain or discomfort
• bloating
• a feeling of fullness
• burning in the stomach
• regurgitation
• belching

Treatment

The most important aspect of treating functional dyspepsia is diagnosis, as this condition has no definitive test and is typically diagnosed after the exclusion of other GI disorders. Treatment is typically tailored to the individual and may include dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and/or medications.

Diet: Eating small, frequent meals and avoiding large meals may help to alleviate symptoms of functional dyspepsia. Additionally, limiting foods that are high in fat and acid, such as spicy foods and fried foods, can be beneficial.

Lifestyle changes: Stress and anxiety can worsen symptoms of functional dyspepsia. Therefore, managing stress levels and finding ways to relax, such as meditation and yoga, may be helpful. Avoiding certain medications, like NSAIDs, may also help.

Medications: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may be used to reduce stomach acid. In some cases, medication to reduce stomach contractions may be beneficial.

Conclusion

Functional dyspepsia is a disorder of the upper GI tract marked by persistent abdominal symptoms, such as nausea and pain after eating. While the cause of this condition is unknown, it is believed that stress and certain foods can trigger the symptoms. Symptoms of functional dyspepsia can vary but can make life difficult. Treatment is typically tailored to the individual, and may include lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and medications. If you think you may have functional dyspepsia, consult your doctor for a proper assessment and treatment plan.

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