Gastrointestinal Disorders
8 min read
Understanding Functional Dyspepsia: Chronic Indigestion
By Dr. Navaneeth K. Unni•Published on 2026-07-01•Patient Group: Adults
Clinical Overview & Pathophysiology
Functional dyspepsia refers to persistent symptoms of indigestion without any structural abnormalities. It is linked to stomach hypersensitivity and impaired gastric accommodation.
Key Clinical Facts & Indicators
- Early Satiety: Feeling full quickly after starting a meal, preventing normal intake.
- Epigastric Pain: Burning discomfort in the upper stomach, unrelated to ulcers.
- Gastric Accommodation Impairment: Inability of the stomach to relax after swallowing food.
- Visceral Hypersensitivity: Elevated pain response to normal digestion processes.
Lifestyle & Nutritional Guidelines
Manage functional dyspepsia by eating smaller, relaxed meals. Avoid greasy, spicy, or fried foods. Manage stress, as the gut-brain axis plays a major role in stomach sensitivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does functional dyspepsia differ from gastritis?Gastritis involves inflammation of the stomach lining (visible on endoscopy), while functional dyspepsia shows no structural inflammation.
Q: Can stress worsen functional dyspepsia?Yes. Stress alters gut motility, increases stomach sensitivity, and impairs normal digestive function.
✓Medically reviewed by Dr. Navaneeth K. Unni
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