Functional Dyspepsia and Its Complications

Comprehensive Care for Chronic Indigestion

What is Functional Dyspepsia?

Functional dyspepsia (FD), often referred to as chronic indigestion, is a common digestive disorder characterized by persistent discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen without an identifiable structural cause. Unlike typical indigestion, FD is not caused by ulcers or other visible abnormalities in the digestive tract.

At Central Gastro, we specialize in diagnosing and managing functional dyspepsia to help you find relief and improve your quality of life.

Symptoms of Functional Dyspepsia

Functional dyspepsia symptoms can vary, but they commonly include:

• Upper Abdominal Pain or Discomfort
• Bloating: Especially after meals.
• Early Satiety: Feeling full quickly when eating.
• Nausea
• Excessive Burping or Belching
• Heartburn or Acid Reflux-Like Symptoms

If these symptoms persist for more than three months, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation to rule out other conditions and develop a management plan.

What Causes Functional Dyspepsia?

The exact cause of FD is not fully understood, but contributing factors may include:

• Delayed Gastric Emptying: Food moves slowly from the stomach to the small intestine.
• Increased Sensitivity: Heightened response to normal stomach activity.
• Gut-Brain Interaction: Miscommunication between the nervous system and the digestive tract.
• Stress and Anxiety: Psychological factors that can exacerbate symptoms.
• Helicobacter pylori Infection: In some cases, this bacteria may contribute to FD.

Complications of Functional Dyspepsia

While FD does not cause physical damage to the digestive tract, untreated or poorly managed symptoms can lead to:

• Reduced Quality of Life: Chronic discomfort affecting daily activities.
• Nutritional Issues: Loss of appetite or food avoidance may lead to weight loss or malnutrition.
• Emotional Impact: Increased stress, anxiety, or depression related to persistent symptoms.

Diagnosis of Functional Dyspepsia

At Central Gastro, we use advanced diagnostic tools to confirm FD and rule out other causes of symptoms, such as ulcers, GERD, or gallbladder issues:

• Medical History and Symptom Review: Identifying patterns and triggers.
• Upper Endoscopy (EGD): To examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for structural abnormalities.
• H. pylori Testing: Stool, breath, or biopsy tests to check for infection.
• Imaging Studies: Such as abdominal ultrasound or CT scans to rule out other conditions.
• Gastric Emptying Tests: To evaluate the speed of stomach emptying.

Treatment Options for Functional Dyspepsia

Our approach at Central Gastro focuses on symptom relief and improving overall digestive health through personalized care plans:

1. Medications

• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
• H2 Receptor Blockers
• Prokinetics: Improve stomach emptying and motility
• Antidepressants: Low-dose tricyclic antidepressants 
• Antibiotics: To treat H. pylori infection if present.

2. Dietary Modifications

• Small, Frequent Meals 
• Avoid Trigger Foods.
• Personalized Nutrition Plans

3. Lifestyle Changes

• Stress Management
• Regular Exercise
• Adequate Hydration

4. Psychological Support

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps address the gut-brain interaction and manage stress-related symptoms.
• Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy: Effective for reducing discomfort and sensitivity.

Long-Term Management of Functional Dyspepsia

Because FD is a chronic condition, long-term management focuses on reducing symptom severity and improving quality of life. At Central Gastro, we offer:

• Regular Follow-Ups: To assess treatment effectiveness and adjust plans as needed.
• Patient Education: Empowering you with tools to manage triggers and symptoms.
• Comprehensive Support: Access to dietitians, psychologists, and other specialists.