Got recurring upper stomach pain, bloating, or a heavy feeling after meals and your tests keep coming back normal? That’s often functional dyspepsia — common chronic indigestion without a clear structural problem. It’s real, often frustrating, and there are practical things you can try right away.
There isn’t one single cause. Problems with how the stomach moves or senses fullness, mild inflammation, and sensitivity to normal stomach stretching all play a role. Stress and anxiety can make symptoms worse. In some people, a past stomach infection or Helicobacter pylori may trigger symptoms — testing and treating H. pylori is a routine first step.
Your doctor will first ask about alarm signs: unexplained weight loss, repeated vomiting, difficulty swallowing, or any bleeding. If those aren’t present, common checks include an H. pylori breath or stool test and basic blood work. Endoscopy (camera test) is reserved for alarm signs or older age. If structural causes are ruled out and symptoms match standard criteria, the diagnosis is usually functional dyspepsia.
So what can you do now? Start with low-risk, high-impact changes:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large ones. Large meals can trigger fullness and pain.
- Cut or reduce fatty, fried, and very spicy foods. These slow stomach emptying and increase discomfort.
- Skip carbonated drinks, limit caffeine and alcohol, and avoid smoking — all can worsen symptoms.
- Slow down while eating. Chew well and don’t eat on the run. Eating fast often causes bloating and discomfort.
- Manage stress with simple habits: short daily walks, breathing exercises, or a sleep routine. Stress often amplifies gut symptoms.
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, medicines can help:
- Antacids for short bursts of acid bother.
- H2 blockers (famotidine) or proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole, esomeprazole) can reduce acid-related symptoms, though not everyone benefits.
- Prokinetic drugs (medications that help stomach emptying) may help when fullness and bloating dominate. These must be used under doctor supervision because of side effects.
- For stubborn symptoms, low-dose certain antidepressants (not for mood only) can reduce pain sensitivity in the gut. Discuss risks and benefits with your clinician.
When to see a doctor right away: new or fast weight loss, persistent vomiting, black or bloody stools, or trouble swallowing. If your symptoms don’t improve with basic measures, ask your doctor about testing for H. pylori, trying a specific medication trial, or a referral to a gastroenterologist.
Functional dyspepsia can be managed. It may take a few adjustments and trials to find what helps you best, but many people see real improvement by combining diet changes, stress work, and guided medication choices.
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