Indigestion

Indigestion (Dyspepsia)

Dyspepsia is a term that includes a group of symptoms that originate from a problem in your upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

• The gastrointestinal tract is the tube that starts from the mouth and ends in the anus. The upper GI tract includes the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
• Dyspepsia is persistent pain or discomfort centered in the upper abdomen lasting for more than three months.

Symptoms of Dyspepsia

• Weight loss
• Progressive dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
• Persistent vomiting
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Unexplained anemia
• Jaundice
• Lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes)
• Palpable abdominal mass

Common Causes

1. Non-ulcer dyspepsia
2. Duodenal and gastric ulcers
3. Duodenitis and gastritis
4. Acid reflux, esophagitis, and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
5. Hiatus hernia
6. Infection with H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori)