Dyspepsia

Dyspepsia is a medical condition characterized by chronic or recurrent pain in the upper abdomen. It is also known as indigestion or upset stomach. The term dyspepsia is derived from the Greek words "dys" meaning bad and "pepsis" meaning digestion.

Causes

Dyspepsia can be caused by a variety of factors. These include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, gastritis, and gallstones. Other causes can include certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and lifestyle factors, such as overeating, eating too quickly, eating high-fat foods, or drinking too much alcohol.

Symptoms

The main symptom of dyspepsia is a feeling of discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen. This can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as bloating, belching, nausea, or an early feeling of fullness when eating. In some cases, dyspepsia can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as stomach cancer or pancreatic cancer.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of dyspepsia is typically based on the patient's symptoms and medical history. In some cases, further tests may be needed to rule out other conditions. These can include an endoscopy, where a thin tube with a camera is used to look at the inside of the stomach, or a barium swallow, where the patient swallows a liquid that coats the inside of the digestive tract and makes it visible on an X-ray.

Treatment

The treatment for dyspepsia depends on the underlying cause. For example, if dyspepsia is caused by GERD, treatment may involve medications to reduce stomach acid. If it is caused by peptic ulcer disease, treatment may involve antibiotics to kill the bacteria that cause the ulcers. Lifestyle changes, such as eating smaller meals more frequently and avoiding certain foods, can also help to manage the symptoms of dyspepsia.

See also

• Gastroenterology
• Digestive system
• Stomach diseases

Dyspepsia Resources
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