Dyspepsia
Synopsis
Dyspepsia is a general term that refers to upper abdominal discomfort or pain, often associated with bloating, early satiety, nausea, belching, and a feeling of fullness during or after meals. It is one of the most common digestive complaints and can be either functional (with no identifiable cause) or organic, stemming from an underlying condition like ulcers, gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or, less commonly, stomach cancer.
The condition may be triggered by overeating, eating too quickly, consuming fatty or spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, smoking, or stress. Infections such as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and use of NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are common contributing factors, especially in chronic or recurrent cases.
While functional dyspepsia is not dangerous, it can significantly reduce quality of life. Organic dyspepsia may require further medical evaluation and treatment. Diagnosis is often based on symptoms but may include tests like endoscopy, H. pylori screening, and imaging if red flags are present (e.g., unintentional weight loss, vomiting, anemia, or gastrointestinal bleeding).
When to see a doctor:
Seek medical evaluation if symptoms are severe, persistent (longer than a few weeks), occur in adults over age 50 for the first time, or are accompanied by red flag symptoms such as weight loss, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, or blood in the stool.
Natural Remedies
Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Helps reduce pressure on the stomach and prevent discomfort.
Avoid Triggers: Reduce intake of fatty, acidic, spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages.
Chew Thoroughly and Eat Slowly: Supports better digestion and prevents overeating.
Elevate Head After Eating: Helps reduce reflux symptoms and improve gastric emptying.
Herbal Teas: Ginger, peppermint, and chamomile teas may relieve bloating and soothe the stomach.
Probiotics: Support gut flora balance and improve digestion, especially in cases linked to dysbiosis.
Ingredients
These raw ingredients are often used in alternative medicine to treat this condition.
slippery elm bark
turmeric
aloe vera
artichoke
barberry
chamomile
dandelion
fennel
ginger
goldenseal
licorice root
marshmallow
peppermint oil