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There is no evidence of organic disease or structural or biochemical abnormality.įunctional dyspepsia can be divided into three categories: Unlike IBS, symptoms are not related to the process of defecation. Symptoms of Functional Dyspepsiaįunctional dyspepsia is characterized by chronic or recurrent pain or discomfort centered in the upper abdomen. The actual diagnosis is based on a detailed history to identify symptoms. Additional evaluation by your physician will normally include a physical exam to rule out other possible causes. For instance, care must be taken not to confuse functional dyspepsia with other common disorders that may cause upper gastrointestinal distress, like heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), functional abdominal bloating, and functional biliary disorders.įunctional dyspepsia is identified based on symptoms. But if that’s not the case, and you know your pain is related to eating or physical activity, you can take steps to prevent it in the future.Symptom overlap is common among several functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Some abdominal pain is unavoidable because it’s related to a serious medical condition that’s developed over time. Female reproductive issues such as uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts or blocked fallopian tubes may also require surgery. If testing shows your pain is related to gastrointestinal conditions such as gallstones, kidney stones, duct or intestinal blockage or appendicitis, you may need surgery. Some conditions may benefit from prescription medication. Stay away from nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) because they can irritate the stomach. Treating abdominal painĭepending on the cause of your abdominal pain, your doctor may prescribe medication including acetaminophen, antacids or other over-the-counter medicines. These tests may include X-rays, CT scan, ultrasound, barium enema or endoscopy. Imaging tests are also helpful for detecting abnormalities inside your gastrointestinal system and other organs. Your doctor may order urine, blood and stool tests. Lower abdomen: Diverticulitis, ectopic pregnancy, appendicitis or inflammation of the fallopian tubes (salpingitis).Middle abdomen: Intestinal blockage, pancreatitis, appendicitis or thoracic aortic aneurysm.Upper abdomen: Pancreatitis, heart attack, GERD or gallstones.General: Appendicitis, Crohn’s disease, urinary tract infection or irritable bowel syndrome.Lower right abdomen: Stomach flu, cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), ovarian cyst or appendicitis.Upper right abdomen: Cholangitis (inflammation of the bile duct), fecal impaction (hardened stools), hepatitis or peptic ulcer.Lower left abdomen: Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis or kidney stones.Upper left abdomen: Heart attack, hiatal hernia, shingles or spleen infection.The location of your pain also gives your doctor clues for diagnosing the possible cause:
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The doctor will analyze all of this information to determine what’s causing your pain. Your doctor may also ask you to describe your pain using words such as burning or achy, crampy or colicky, mild or severe, in one place or all over, dull or sharp, constant or in waves. Your doctor will ask you to describe your symptoms and medical history, and they’ll perform a thorough physical exam. Chest pain (get prompt medical attention)Īny of these additional symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying cause that requires medical treatment.Burning sensation when you urinate or frequent urination.Bloating or swelling that lasts more than a few days.
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