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Dyspepsia (Indigestion) — Comprehensive Guide

A functional or organic digestive disorder with pain, bloating, and fullness in the upper abdomen.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Dyspepsia (Indigestion) — Comprehensive Guide?

Dyspepsia is the general name for a cluster of symptoms such as discomfort, pain, fullness, early satiety, nausea, and bloating felt in the stomach or upper abdomen. In organic dyspepsia there is a defined cause such as peptic ulcer, H. pylori infection, or gastritis; in functional dyspepsia, endoscopic examination does not reveal an explanatory lesion.

Functional dyspepsia accounts for approximately 40% of gastroenterology outpatient visits and affects 10-20% of the population. Impaired gastric motility, visceral hypersensitivity, and gut-brain axis dysfunction play important roles in the pathophysiology.

Rome IV criteria are used for diagnosis: symptoms centered in the upper abdomen at least several times a week for the last three months and exclusion of a structural disease are required. Treatment is personalized based on the underlying cause, symptom profile, and the patient's biopsychosocial status.

Symptoms

Burning or pain in the center of the upper abdomen
Prolonged fullness after meals
Feeling full quickly after eating a small amount (early satiety)
Belching and upper abdominal bloating
Nausea (sometimes accompanied by vomiting)
Worsening of symptoms after eating
Upper abdominal discomfort disturbing sleep at night

Risk Factors

H. pylori positivity
NSAID (pain reliever) and aspirin use
Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption
Stress, anxiety disorder, and depression
Excessive consumption of fatty, spicy, and acidic foods
Irregular and rapid eating habits
Family history of peptic ulcer or stomach cancer

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • New-onset dyspepsia symptoms over age 55
  • If unintentional weight loss or loss of appetite accompanies symptoms
  • If there is difficulty or pain on swallowing
  • If blood is noticed in stool or vomit
  • If there is iron-deficiency anemia or unexplained fatigue
  • If symptoms do not respond to standard treatment

Treatment Methods

01
Eradication therapy in H. pylori positivity (antibiotic + proton pump inhibitor combination)
02
Proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole, pantoprazole): for pain and burning
03
Prokinetic drugs (metoclopramide, domperidone): for fullness and early satiety
04
Reduction or discontinuation of NSAID use
05
Psychological support and cognitive behavioral therapy (in functional dyspepsia)
06
Dietary pattern: small portions, slow eating, avoidance of trigger foods
07
Stress management and regular physical activity

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.