What Is The Prognosis For Functional Dyspepsia?

Dyspepsia is chronic or recurrent pain, sometimes discomfort which is focused in the upper part of the abdomen. It may typically include symptoms like bloating, early or prolonged abdominal fullness, early satiety or even nausea. However, discomfort may mean differently to different people. Dyspepsia is very commonly seen around the world. Functional dyspepsia is a condition which includes all symptoms of dyspepsia, but with any obvious reason. It means, there is nothing wrong with the digestive system structurally, but the symptoms still persist. ⁽¹⁾

The diagnosis of functional dyspepsia can be challenging sometimes. However, the prognosis for functional dyspepsia is fairly good. So far, no evidence is found that it leads to cancer or any other serious condition. There are multiple theories related to its cause, however, the actual cause is yet unknown. Treatment for functional dyspepsia usually is successful and may include variable approach like dietary discretion and guidance, medication, etc. ^(1,2)

Functional dyspepsia is quite a common condition seen all around the world. In fact, it is the commonest type of dyspepsia seen in people. It is also known by the names irritable stomach syndrome, non-ulcer dyspepsia, etc. ⁽¹⁾

The treatment of functional dyspepsia is usually multifactorial, and a varied approach may be needed in different people. The key factor in the treatment of this condition is explaining the diagnosis of the condition to the patient in a full detailed, yet comprehensible way. The explanation of the disease to the patient will ensure that he or she understands what he/she is going to live with and what measures taken can be helpful in managing the symptoms or reducing them. It is important to explain to them that it is a benign disorder and does not lead to serious consequences. It is also important to tell them that this condition can be managed with treatment to a good extent. ⁽³⁾

The varied treatment approach to this condition may include lifestyle changes, dietary discretion, medicinal treatment, and emotional therapy, in single or in combination, as and when needed.

• Adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle can help in improving the symptoms of functional dyspepsia to a great level.
• Drink enough water throughout the day and stay hydrated. The right amount of hydration will ensure the proper functioning of the digestive tract.
• Identify and avoid foods and other factors that trigger your symptoms or make them worse. The most likely factors may include acidic foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, etc., packaged and processed foods, salty foods, hot and spicy foods, vinegar, dairy, caffeine, alcohol, smoking, tobacco chewing, restless nights, stress, anxiety, depression, etc. however, some of these may vary from person to person ⁽⁴⁾

• Medicines used to treat functional dyspepsia may include antacids, proton pump inhibitors, anti-depressants, anti-inflammatory medicines, etc. anti-depressants are usually used if there is a failure of other medication. In case of an H-pylori infection, antibiotics may be needed to eliminate the infection
• Phytotherapy and psychotherapy may also be needed in some cases. Psychotherapy is especially thought of at times of cases of treatment resistance. ⁽⁴⁾
• Alternative Treatment Methods- Stress, anxiety, and depression can aggravate symptoms of functional dyspepsia. To control these emotions, alternative therapies like yoga, meditation, relaxing techniques like massage, etc. may be helpful in many people

Functional dyspepsia is a chronic condition of the digestive tract which affects the sensation and movement of the upper part of the digestive tract. It affects the peristaltic movement of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. The exact cause of this condition is not known, although sometimes it may be due to an infection caused by the bacterium H-pylori. This condition is very commonly seen around the world and has a good prognosis. This condition can be managed through lifestyle changes and medication.

References:

Also Read:

• What is Nonulcer Stomach Pain or Functional Dyspepsia: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Diet, Prognosis, Risk Factors