Dyspepsia is a condition characterized by symptoms of indigestion, such as pain in the upper abdomen, burping, nausea, and general discomfort. These symptoms can significantly affect a person’s quality of life.
In most cases, dyspepsia is linked to the presence of Helicobacter pylori in the stomach. However, it can also be caused by poor eating habits, intestinal infections, or emotional factors such as stress and anxiety.
It’s important for a primary care provider or gastroenterologist to identify the cause of dyspepsia in order to recommend the most appropriate treatment. Management may include dietary changes, medications to relieve symptoms, and lifestyle improvements such as quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, and reducing intake of fatty or heavily seasoned foods.
Common symptoms
The main symptoms of dyspepsia include:
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Feeling full even after eating small amounts of food;
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Pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen after meals;
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Burning sensation in the stomach;
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Nausea;
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Frequent burping;
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Abdominal bloating.
Some people may also experience loss of appetite and weight loss.
Confirming a diagnosis
Dyspepsia is diagnosed by a primary care provider or gastroenterologist based on a person’s symptoms, medical history, and results of diagnostic tests such as an upper endoscopy, which helps identify the underlying cause.
Possible causes
Dyspepsia occurs when the stomach lining becomes overly sensitive, which can be caused by:
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Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection;
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Gastroesophageal reflux;
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Intestinal infections;
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Use of certain medications, especially nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Other factors that may contribute to dyspepsia include poor eating habits, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, alcohol use, and emotional stress or anxiety. When these factors are responsible, the condition is referred to as functional dyspepsia.
Treatment options
Treatment for dyspepsia should be prescribed by a gastroenterologist or primary care provider based on the cause. The main goal is to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
1. Medications
To ease symptoms, a doctor may recommend:
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Pain relievers to reduce stomach pain;
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Acid-suppressing medications used to treat peptic ulcers, such as omeprazole or esomeprazole;
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Prokinetic medications, which help the stomach empty more efficiently.
If the dyspepsia is caused by H. pylori infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.
2. Natural treatments
Natural approaches to managing dyspepsia focus on avoiding triggers that can cause symptoms, such as smoking, alcohol, and coffee, while following a healthy and balanced diet.
Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and reducing stress and anxiety through relaxing activities like meditation, yoga, or aromatherapy can also be beneficial.
Applying a warm compress or heating pad to the abdomen during painful episodes may help relieve discomfort.
3. Diet
Dietary changes for dyspepsia involve identifying and avoiding foods that cause intolerance or discomfort. It is helpful to record how you feel after eating certain foods in order to identify those that may irritate the stomach lining and cause pain, bloating, or diarrhea.
In general, foods to avoid include:
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Fatty or fried foods;
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Spicy or heavily seasoned dishes;
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Carbonated beverages;
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Cocoa or chocolate;
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Gas-producing foods such as beans, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, and onions.
Meals should be eaten at regular times without rushing, making sure to chew food slowly and thoroughly. Eating small, frequent meals can help improve digestion. If you experience acidity or heartburn, it’s best to avoid lying down immediately after eating.