What is Dyspepsia?

Dyspepsia, often known as indigestion, is a common issue that affects many people. It is a term used to describe discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen. Diagnosing dyspepsia involves several steps to ensure the correct treatment. Below is a simple and clear explanation of how dyspepsia is diagnosed.

Diagnosing dyspepsia involves a combination of talking with your doctor, a physical exam, and possibly some tests. If you experience persistent indigestion, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out more serious conditions and get the right care.

How Dyspepsia is Diagnosed?

Medical History and Symptoms

The first step in diagnosing dyspepsia is discussing your medical history with your doctor. They will ask you about your symptoms, such as:

●       Abdominal Pain: Where the pain is located and how severe it is.

●       Bloating: If you feel full or swollen in the stomach.

●       Nausea: If you feel like you might vomit.

●       Belching or Gas: If you are burping more than usual or have excess gas.

●       Heartburn: If you feel a burning sensation in your chest.

Physical Examination of Dyspepsia

After discussing your symptoms, the doctor will likely perform a physical examination. They may press on different areas of your abdomen to check for tenderness or swelling. This helps the doctor determine if there is any noticeable discomfort or pain in specific parts of your abdomen.

Tests for Diagnosis

If your symptoms suggest dyspepsia, the doctor may recommend a few tests to rule out other conditions:

●       Blood Tests: These tests check for anaemia, infections, or other conditions that could be causing your symptoms.

●       Endoscopy: In this test, a thin tube with a camera is inserted down your throat to look inside your stomach and small intestine. This helps to see if there are any ulcers, inflammation, or other issues.

●       Ultrasound: This imaging test uses sound waves to create pictures of your organs and can help identify problems like gallstones or liver disease.

●       H. pylori Test: This test checks for the presence of Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria that can cause ulcers and is often associated with dyspepsia. It can be done through a breath test, stool test, or biopsy during an endoscopy.

Dr. Kailash Mishra
Director & Gastroenterologist Consultant
Prime Gastro Liver Clinic