Non-Ulcer Stomach Pain or Functional Dyspepsia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment in Delhi

Non-ulcer stomach pain, medically known as functional dyspepsia, is a condition that often confuses both patients and healthcare professionals.

In this article, we will discuss all about functional dyspepsia, its symptoms, diagnosis, available treatments, and the crucial role of a GI surgeon in managing this complex gastrointestinal disorder.

Understanding Functional Dyspepsia:

Functional Dyspepsia is a chronic disorder characterized by persistent pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen. It is often referred to as indigestion and includes a cluster of symptoms impacting digestive functions, manifesting as abdominal bloating, pain, stomach discomfort, and belching.

Unlike other gastrointestinal conditions, functional dyspepsia lacks identifiable structural abnormalities, making its diagnosis challenging and often requiring a thorough process of elimination.

Symptoms of Functional Dyspepsia:

Functional dyspepsia, or Non-Ulcer Stomach Pain, can manifest with various symptoms, including:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Nausea
• Bloating
• Heartburn
• A sensation of fullness
• Frequent belching or burping

It's important to note that these symptoms can vary among individuals, and the severity may fluctuate over time. If you suspect functional dyspepsia, it is advisable to consult with a GI surgeon for a proper diagnosis and management.

Causes of Functional Dyspepsia:

The exact causes of functional dyspepsia are not fully understood, and it is considered a complex condition with multiple potential contributing factors. Below are some factors that may be associated with functional dyspepsia:

• Abnormal gastrointestinal motility
• Increased sensitivity of the nerves in the stomach and intestines
• Helicobacter pylori infection
• Low-level inflammation in the stomach lining
• Psychological factors like stress and anxiety
• Delayed emptying of the stomach (Gastroparesis)
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Diagnosis of Functional Dyspepsia:

Below are the common steps in the functional dyspepsia diagnostic process:

• Medical history
• Physical examination
• Diagnostic tests, including blood tests, stool tests, etc.
• Upper endoscopy
• Abdominal ultrasound
• CT scans
• Helicobacter pylori testing

Treatment approaches for Functional Dyspepsia:

The treatment of functional dyspepsia focuses on managing symptoms and improving the patient's quality of life. Commonly used treatment approaches include:

• Lifestyle modifications: Practice a healthy daily routine, along with yoga, meditation, and stress-relieving exercises.
• Dietary changes: Avoiding certain foods and drinks that can trigger symptoms, such as spicy or fatty foods, caffeine, and alcohol.
• Change eating habits: eat smaller, more frequent meals and avoid large, heavy meals.
• Medications: Like acid suppressors, prokinetics, or antidepressants, may be prescribed to manage symptoms.
• Psychological therapies: This form of psychotherapy can be effective in addressing psychological factors contributing to symptoms.
• Some individuals may benefit from probiotics.
• Helicobacter. pylori infection eradication.
• Certain herbal remedies, such as peppermint oil or ginger.

Role of the GI surgeon in treating Functional Dyspepsia:

The role of a GI surgeon in treating functional dyspepsia primarily involves:

• Thorough evaluation and diagnosis.
• Surgical intervention is needed when conservative treatments fail.
• Exploring minimally invasive procedures like laparoscopic fundoplication.
• Follow-up and monitoring

Summing it up with Dr. Neeraj Goel

Living with functional dyspepsia often necessitates lifestyle adjustments and ongoing management. Patients are encouraged to actively engage with their GI surgeon to tailor an individualized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs.

It's crucial for individuals with functional dyspepsia to consult with Dr. Neeraj Goel, the best GI surgeon in Delhi, for personalized advice and a tailored treatment plan.