Functional dyspepsia: causes, symptoms, and treatment & bull; hello healthy

Definition

What is functional dyspepsia?

Functional dyspepsia is abdominal pain without any ulcers (ulcers) and without an obvious cause. This type of stomach pain is common and can be long-lasting. Non-ulcer-like stomach pain can cause signs and symptoms that resemble a stomach ulcer, such as pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen, often accompanied by bloating, belching and nausea.

How common is functional dyspepsia?

This condition can occur in patients of any age. Functional dyspepsia can be treated by reducing risk factors. Talk to your doctor for more information.

Characteristics and Symptoms

What are the features and symptoms of functional dyspepsia?

Common symptoms of functional dyspepsia are:

Burning sensation or discomfort in the upper abdomen or lower chest, sometimes relieved by food or antacid medicines
Bloating
Burp
Feel full quickly
Nausea

There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

You should contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

Vomiting blood
Dark, black stool such as asphalt or petis
Hard to breathe
Pain that radiates to the jaw, neck, or arms

If you have any signs or symptoms above or any other questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone's body is different. Always consult a doctor to treat your health condition.

Cause

What causes functional dyspepsia?

Often times, it is not clear what causes these non-ulcer abdominal pain. Doctors consider this condition as a functional disorder, which is not always caused by a specific disease. That's why this condition is called functional dyspepsia.

Triggers

What puts me more at risk for functional dyspepsia?

There are many trigger factors that put you at risk for functional dyspepsia, including:

Drink too much alcohol or caffeinated beverages
Smoke
Using certain medications, especially over-the-counter pain relievers, such as aspirin and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, IB, others), that can cause stomach problems

Diagnosis and Treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

How is functional dyspepsia diagnosed?

The doctor will look for signs and symptoms and perform a physical examination. Several diagnostic tests can help your doctor determine the cause of discomfort, such as:

Blood test. Blood tests can help rule out other conditions that could cause signs or symptoms that mimic non-ulcer abdominal pain.
Bacteria test. The doctor can order tests to see the bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) which can cause stomach upset. The H. pylori test can use your blood, stool, or breath.
Use scope to check your digestive system. A thin, flexible light instrument (endoscope) is inserted through the throat so that the doctor can see the esophagus, stomach and the beginning of the small intestine (duodenum).

How to treat functional dyspepsia?

Non-ulcer abdominal pain that lasts for a long time and is not controlled by lifestyle changes may require specific medication. The type of treatment you receive depends on your signs and symptoms. The treatment given can combine drugs and behavioral therapy.

Medications that can help with the signs and symptoms of non-ulcer stomach pain include:

Over-the-counter gas drugs. Medicines containing simethicone can provide relief by reducing gas. Examples of drugs that reduce gas include Mylanta and Gas-X.
Medications to reduce acid production. Called H-2 receptor blockers, these medications are available at pharmacies and include cimetidine (Tagamet HB), famotidine (Pepcid AC), nizatidine (Axid AR) and ranitidine (Zantac 75). A stronger version is available in prescription form.
Medications that block the acid "pump". Proton pump inhibitors turn off the acid "pump" in the stomach cells that secrete acid. Proton pump inhibitors reduce acid by inhibiting the action of the tiny pumps. Over-the-counter proton pump inhibitors include lansoprazole (Prevacid 24 HR) and omeprazole (Prilosec OTC). Stronger proton pump inhibitors are also available by prescription.
Medicine to strengthen sphincter esophagus. Prokinetic agents help the stomach empty more quickly and tighten the valve between the stomach and esophagus, reducing the chance of upper stomach discomfort. Doctors can prescribe metoclopramide (Reglan) treatment, but this drug is not available for everyone and can have significant side effects.
Low-dose antidepressants. Tricyclic antidepressants and drugs known as serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), taken in low doses, can help limit the activity of neurons that control pain in the intestines.
Antibiotics. If the test results indicate that you have an ulcer-causing bacteria called H. pylori in your stomach, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

Working with a counselor or therapist can help relieve signs and symptoms that can't be helped with medication. A counselor or therapist can teach you relaxation techniques that can help you deal with your signs and symptoms. You can also learn ways to reduce stress in your life to prevent disease recurrence.

Prevention

What can I do at home to prevent or treat this disease?

Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to help control stomach pain caused by this condition.

Changes in your diet and how you eat can control signs and symptoms. Try to:

Eat more frequent meals with smaller portions. An empty stomach can sometimes cause non-ulcer abdominal pain. An empty stomach with acid can make you nauseous. Try to snack on, like cracker or fruit.
Avoid skipping meals. Avoid large portions and overeat. Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
Avoid foods that can trigger non-ulcer stomach pain, such as fatty and spicy foods, acids, soft drinks, caffeine, and alcohol.
Chew food slowly until smooth. Take the time to eat slowly.

Stress-reducing techniques can help you control your signs and symptoms. To reduce stress, spend time doing things you enjoy, such as hobbies or sports. Relaxation therapy or yoga can also help.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.