Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders: Functional Upper Gastrointestinal Disorders in Adults

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

Background:

• Functional upper gastrointestinal disorders are prevalent, causing significant patient distress and healthcare costs.
• These conditions are broadly categorized into esophageal and gastroduodenal types.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the classification and diagnostic criteria for functional upper gastrointestinal disorders.
• To review initial and subsequent management strategies for these conditions.

Main Methods:

• Diagnosis is based on clinical findings, thorough history, and physical examination to exclude organic causes.
• Rome IV criteria are the standard for diagnosis.
• Evaluation involves identifying red flag signs and symptoms.

Main Results:

• Functional esophageal disorders include functional heartburn, reflux hypersensitivity, and functional dysphagia.
• Functional gastroduodenal disorders include functional dyspepsia and cyclic vomiting syndrome.
• Cyclic vomiting syndrome requires suspicion in cases of recurrent, unexplained vomiting that resolves between episodes.

Conclusions:

• Initial management for all functional upper gastrointestinal disorders involves patient education and lifestyle modifications.
• Behavioral therapy and pharmacotherapy are considered when initial strategies are insufficient.
• For functional dyspepsia, acid suppression, H. pylori eradication, antidepressants, and bismuth may be beneficial.