Non-ulcer indigestion, also known as functional indigestion is a condition wherein the symptoms of indigestion are seen, but upper abdomen does not have a duodenal ulcer, stomach ulcer, inflamed esophagus or inflamed stomach. The endoscopic examination of gut gives normal results. It usually affects young adults; women are more affected than men. Nearly 60% of people suffering from indigestion have non-ulcer indigestion.
The exact cause of non-ulcer indigestion is still not known. However, scientists believe that few factors may contribute to the condition such as
The symptoms are similar to that of indigestion such as nausea, bloating, belching.
Feeling of stomach fullness during a meal or immediately after the meal, flatulence, burning sensation or pain in the upper abdomen region or deep inside the chest (which may disappear after taking food or antacid), and vomiting.
The doctor will first ask about your symptoms and assess medical history. Then he or she would recommend for the following tests:
If the above tests are negative, patient should be evaluated for anxiety, stress and emotional events because these conditions sometimes affect digestion.
In most of the cases, the condition can be managed simply by reducing stress, anxiety and emotional events. If the problem still persists, the following treatment options are considered.
MedicationsIf acid-suppressing medicine fails to relieve symptoms, prokinetic drug (domperidone) may be given.
Other medications include:
Measures to be taken to prevent symptoms of indigestion are as follows:
