DYSPEPSIA

Dyspepsia is a recurrent or persistent pain that is mostly located in the upper abdomen.
About 25 percent of people in the United States  have symptoms of dyspepsia.

CAUSES 

Digestion of   food involves series of events that require coordination of the nerves and muscles of the digestive tract. Abnormalities in this system may lead to delayed emptying of the stomach contents resulting in nausea and vomiting, an early sense of fullness with eating, and bloating. Increased sensitivity to pain, psychological factors and Helicobacter pylori infection might play a role as well.

SYMPTOMS

Bloating  
Discomfort or pain in the abdominal area
Early sense of fullness with meals  
Nausea /  vomiting

DIAGNOSIS

Generally based on detailed medical history and physical examination.
The American Gastroenterological Association recommends upper endoscopy for those older than 55 or with serious symptoms, such as repeated vomiting, weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or anemia.

TREATMENT

Avoiding fatty foods which can slow the emptying of the stomach as well as eating small frequent meals are the cornerstones of treatment. Acid reducing medications and antidepressants can be  helpful. Few patients with functional dyspepsia improve following treatment of H. pylori.

For more information , please see

      www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/healthtopics.html
      www.niddk.nih.gov/
      www.cdc.gov/
      www.gastro.org
      www.acg.gi.org
      www.iffgd.org