Are you tired of suffering from heartburn, abdominal discomfort, and indigestion? In this comprehensive guide on chronic dyspepsia, we will explore the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for this irritating condition.
These symptoms may be indicative of this common health condition that affects many people worldwide. Keep reading and learn more.
What is dyspepsia?
Dyspepsia, also known as chronic indigestion, is a medical term that describes a condition characterized by a set of factors that affect the upper part of the digestive tract.
Although these symptoms can vary from person to person, dyspepsia is commonly associated with abdominal discomfort, a burning sensation in the stomach, fullness after meals, and frequent belching.
This condition is uncomfortable due to its ability to disrupt the well-being and quality of life of those who suffer from it.
In addition, chronic dyspepsia persists for a prolonged period.
It can manifest in various forms and intensities, and identifying the underlying causes and specific symptoms is essential to determine the appropriate treatment.
Common causes of chronic indigestion
Chronic indigestion is a multifaceted condition whose causes can be diverse and, in some cases, interconnected.
One of the main causes is linked to eating habits.
They play a significant role in the manifestation of the condition.
Consuming food in excess, particularly those rich in spices, fats, or acids, can alter the digestive system, just as eating meals in a hurry and swallowing large portions can contribute to the feeling of fullness and abdominal discomfort after eating.
Certain bacterial infections, notably Helicobacter pylori, can cause inflammation in the stomach lining.
This inflammation, in turn, can lead to the development of dyspepsia symptoms.
It is also important to note that chronic stress and anxiety have a notable influence on the function of the digestive system.
In stressful situations, the body can react abnormally, affecting the ability to digest and contributing to the emergence of chronic indigestion indicators.
The complex connection between the brain and the gastrointestinal system can result in disturbances in food digestion due to emotional factors.
It is possible to mention in the list of factors that generate the condition of indigestion some medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and certain medications for heart problems, as these can trigger irritation in the stomach mucosa when used for long periods.
This irritation can lead to the development of symptoms, especially if these medications are not administered according to medical guidelines or are not taken with food.
Among these common causes, dyspepsia is often associated with other gastrointestinal conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and ulcers.
In these cases, treating the underlying condition is essential to control and relieve associated symptoms.
Symptoms of dyspepsia
The symptoms of the condition can vary, but generally include:
- Pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen.
- Burning sensation in the stomach.
- Frequent belching.
- Fullness after meals.
- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
They can occur occasionally or become chronic, affecting the quality of life as a whole.
Therefore, it is essential to recognize these symptoms and seek medical guidance when necessary.
Diagnosis of dyspepsia
Diagnosing this condition is a careful process that requires a detailed evaluation of factors, medical history, and in some cases, the performance of specific tests.
If you are experiencing symptoms of chronic indigestion, it is essential to seek medical guidance to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
The first step in evaluating dyspepsia is a comprehensive conversation with a doctor.
During the consultation, the healthcare professional will ask detailed questions about what you are feeling, eating habits, lifestyle, and medical history.
This exchange of information is necessary to understand the cause and determine the possible sources of the disease.
From there, some examination may be performed to identify physical signs that may be associated. This includes checking for signs of abdominal discomfort, bloating, or any other sign that may indicate problems in the digestive system.
However, it is important to note that the physical examination alone is not enough to confirm the diagnosis.
In some cases, blood tests may be requested to assess the presence of infections or problems related to the digestive system.
These tests can identify specific markers that suggest the presence of an underlying condition, such as a Helicobacter pylori infection, as mentioned above.
In situations where symptoms are persistent or there is suspicion of more serious secondary conditions, such as ulcers or gastric cancer, the doctor may recommend imaging tests, such as endoscopy.
It is essential to recognize that the diagnosis of dyspepsia can be a comprehensive process, as the condition can have various causes.
Therefore, the combination of detailed analyses is essential to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. Based on this diagnosis, the doctor will be able to direct the appropriate treatment to relieve all general symptoms.
Treatment options for chronic indigestion
The treatment depends on the causes and severity of the symptoms.
Common treatment options involve making changes to eating habits, such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller and more frequent meals, and reducing alcohol and tobacco consumption, to help alleviate discomfort.
If dyspepsia is caused by ulcers or infections, the doctor may prescribe appropriate medications, such as antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), or antibiotics.
If chronic indigestion is related to other medical conditions, such as GERD, for example, these conditions should be treated as a priority to finally alleviate the main problem.
Lifestyle changes to control dyspepsia symptoms
Making lifestyle changes plays a very fundamental role in controlling the symptoms of chronic indigestion.
Here are some tips for simple daily habits that can help you reduce discomfort:
- Avoid spicy, fatty, acidic, and heavily seasoned foods, which can irritate the stomach;
- Eat smaller and more frequent meals throughout the day to reduce pressure on the digestive system;
- Chew food well to facilitate digestion;
- Avoid lying down immediately after meals;
- Reduce alcohol and tobacco consumption;
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques, such as meditation and exercise.
Dyspepsia, or chronic indigestion, is an uncomfortable condition that affects many people, so it is essential to recognize the factors that trigger it and seek medical guidance when necessary.
Proper treatment, including lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medications, can help alleviate symptoms such as heartburn, abdominal discomfort, and indigestion, and improve the quality of life of those suffering from this condition.
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Doutor em Gastroenterologia pela FM-USP.
Especialista em Cirurgia do Aparelho Digestivo (HCFMUSP), Endoscopia Digestiva (SOBED) e Gastroenterologia (FBG).
Professor do curso de Medicina da Fundação Educacional do Município de Assis - FEMA.
Médico da clínica Gastrosaúde de Marília.