Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a long-term digestive issue where you experience ongoing indigestion without a clear physical reason.
Several nonstructural factors can contribute to FD, such as bacterial infections, certain foods you eat, and certain medications you take.
This article will explain what functional dyspepsia is, how to treat it, and the symptoms you might experience.
What is Functional Dyspepsia?
Functional dyspepsia, often referred to as FD, is a condition characterized by persistent indigestion without structural issues in the upper digestive tract. When you have FD, you may experience discomfort or pain in the upper part of your digestive system and feel full soon after starting a meal or for an extended period. These symptoms can persist for a month or more.
Source: Do you know, there are 2 sub-types of functional dyspepsia (FD)?
Ten Causes of Functional Dyspepsia
Functional dyspepsia doesn't have a single cause but can result from various factors, either individually or combined.
Some potential causes include:
- Allergens: Certain substances that trigger allergic reactions.
- Changes in intestinal microbiome: Alterations in the balance of bacteria in the gut.
- Infections: Microbial infections affecting the digestive system.
- H. pylori bacterium: Presence of the Helicobacter pylori bacteria in the stomach.
- Excess acid secretion: Overproduction of stomach acid.
- Inflammation: Irritation or swelling in the upper digestive tract.
- Impaired digestion: Disruption in the stomach's ability to process food.
- Diet and lifestyle: Certain dietary choices and habits.
- Stress: Emotional or psychological stressors.
- Medication side effects: Adverse effects of drugs like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Source: Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder.
Six Symptoms of Functional Dyspepsia
Symptoms of functional dyspepsia can differ among individuals but commonly include:
- Burning or pain in the upper digestive tract.
- Bloating, feeling excessively full even after consuming small amounts of food.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Burping and sour taste in the mouth.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Psychological distress associated with the condition.
To receive a diagnosis of FD, your symptoms typically need to persist for at least one month, and they may fluctuate in intensity over time. Read more on functional dyspepsia symptoms.
Treatment For Functional Dyspepsia
Treatment options for functional dyspepsia (FD) are diverse due to the condition's varied causes and symptoms. Your doctor will tailor the treatment based on the severity of your symptoms.
Here are some possible treatment approaches:
1. Medications
Your doctor may prescribe medications to alleviate FD symptoms.
These may include:
H2 receptor blockers: These medications neutralize stomach acid.
Proton pump inhibitors: They block acid production in the stomach.
Gas-relieving medications: These help reduce bloating and discomfort.
Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants like amitriptyline can help manage symptoms.
Prokinetic agents: These medications enhance esophageal strength.
Stomach-emptying medications: Drugs like metoclopramide aid in emptying the stomach.
Antibiotics: If an H. pylori infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed.
Psychological Intervention
Psychological interventions can play a crucial role in managing functional dyspepsia (FD), as suggested by several studies:
Link with Psychological Disorders: Research indicates a connection between psychological disorders and FD, suggesting that psychological factors may contribute to the condition and vice versa.
Benefits of Psychological Interventions: According to recent reviews, psychological interventions can be beneficial in treating FD. These interventions aim to address psychological factors that may exacerbate symptoms or contribute to the condition's onset.
Hypnotherapy: A 2019 review suggested that hypnotherapy may be effective in alleviating FD symptoms. However, further research is needed to confirm these findings.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Psychotherapy: Other psychological approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and psychotherapy, have shown promise in relieving FD symptoms. These interventions help individuals address negative thought patterns, manage stress, and develop coping strategies for symptom management.
Management For Functional Dyspepsia
Understanding and improving your diet can be a key step in managing functional dyspepsia. Sometimes, what, when, or how you eat can trigger your symptoms. Making changes to your diet and lifestyle can provide lasting relief.
Here are some dietary and lifestyle changes that might help ease your functional dyspepsia symptoms:
- Eat smaller meals more often instead of large meals.
- Avoid foods high in fat, as they can slow down your stomach's emptying.
- Focus on eating low FODMAP foods, which are less likely to cause digestive issues.
- Quit smoking and limit your alcohol and caffeine intake.
- While healthcare providers often suggest these changes, more research is needed to fully understand their effectiveness.
- Using natural ingredients such as aloe vera, licorice root, and turmeric. These ingredients are all very good for the stomach. You can find these ingredients in Cumargold
Working with a doctor or dietitian can help you figure out which dietary changes are right for you.
Since FD symptoms can disrupt your daily life, getting psychological support as part of your treatment plan can also help manage your symptoms.
In Summary
Functional dyspepsia affects each person differently, with symptoms varying from one individual to another. To confirm a diagnosis, your doctor may order tests.
It's important to seek the support you need to manage the condition effectively. Lifestyle adjustments, specific medications, and mental health support can help alleviate symptoms and enhance your overall quality of life.