Chronic indigestion despite normal imaging test results. Why?

Functional dyspepsia is a condition related to digestion that causes discomfort in the upper abdomen. Unlike other digestive issues, it doesn't have a clear physical cause, making it a functional disorder. It's important to note that functional dyspepsia is not caused by an underlying structural problem, inflammation, or tissue damage in the digestive system.

Common symptoms of functional dyspepsia include persistent pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen, often described as burning or gnawing. Some individuals may feel overly full or bloated after meals, heartburn, or acid reflux. Additionally, there might be early satiety, where a person feels full sooner than expected during a meal. Symptoms may come and go over time, and they can be triggered or worsened by certain foods, stress, or anxiety.

The exact cause of functional dyspepsia is not well understood, but several factors may contribute to its development. These factors include abnormalities in the way the stomach muscles contract, increased sensitivity to stomach acids, and certain infections. Stress and anxiety can also play a role in exacerbating symptoms. While the precise cause may vary among individuals, functional dyspepsia is generally considered a result of a complex interplay of these factors.

Evidence-Based Medicine for Functional Dyspepsia:

Functional dyspepsia can be effectively addressed through the combined benefits of acupuncture and herbal medicine. These holistic approaches work in tandem to restore the normal functionality of the stomach, alleviate stress or anxiety, consequently reducing hypersensitivity in the digestive organs. Additionally, they play a crucial role in promoting the excretion of waste and enhancing overall circulation within the body, leading to improved digestion.

The therapeutic benefits of acupuncture for functional dyspepsia are becoming increasingly evident through clinical trials.

In a comprehensive meta-analysis, researchers examined data from various clinical trials to assess the effectiveness of acupuncture in patients with functional dyspepsia. The first analysis compared acupuncture and electroacupuncture with sham (placebo) acupuncture in seven trials, involving636 participants. After a 4-week treatment period, acupuncture demonstrated a significant positive impact on functional dyspepsia symptoms and improvements in NDI scores (which assess both symptoms and quality of life) compared to sham acupuncture [1]. In a separate analysis comparing acupuncture to conventional medication (prokinetic agents), involving ten RCTs with 916 participants, acupuncture also showed superiority in enhancing NDI scores [1].

These findings provide valuable insights, suggesting that acupuncture can be considered as an alternative treatment for symptoms of functional dyspepsia.

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Reference:

[1] Pang, B., Jiang, T., Du, Y. H., Li, J., Li, B., Hu, Y. C., &Cai, Q. H. (2016). Acupuncture for Functional Dyspepsia: What Strength Does It Have? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2016, 3862916.https://doi.org/10.1155/2016/3862916

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Disclaimer:

This website and its contents are intended for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Whenever possible, it is advised to seek professional care from a qualified healthcare professional for proper medical treatment.