Functional Dyspepsia
Functional dyspepsia specialist with over 10 years of experience. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment by subtypes at INMEQ private clinic.
What is Functional Dyspepsia?
Functional dyspepsia is a chronic digestive disorder characterized by discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen (epigastrium) without an identifiable structural cause through endoscopy or complementary tests.
As a gastroenterology specialist in Madrid, my approach is based on exhaustive differential diagnosis and personalized treatment according to each patient's predominant symptoms, significantly improving their quality of life.
Specialized Evaluation
- Complete consultation at INMEQ
- Detailed symptom analysis
- Exhaustive medical history
- Personalized diagnostic study planning
- Rule out organic causes
Characteristic Symptoms
Epigastric Pain or Burning
Discomfort or burning sensation in the upper abdomen
Early Satiety
Inability to finish normal-sized meals
Upper Abdominal Bloating
Distension and discomfort in the upper abdomen
Fatty Food Intolerance
Worsening of symptoms with high-fat foods
Functional Dyspepsia Subtypes
Classification according to Rome IV criteria for specific treatment
Postprandial Distress Syndrome (PDS)
Symptoms primarily related to food intake
Diagnostic Criteria:
- Bothersome postprandial fullness sensation
- Early satiety preventing meal completion
- Occurrence with normal-volume meals
- Frequency: at least 3 days per week
Epigastric Pain Syndrome (EPS)
Pain or burning localized in the upper abdomen
Diagnostic Criteria:
- Moderate to severe epigastric pain or burning
- Midline abdominal location
- Not improved by defecation
- Frequency: at least 1 day per week
Important note: Many patients present characteristics of both subtypes (overlap), requiring a combined and personalized therapeutic approach.
Specialized Diagnosis
Systematic approach to rule out organic causes and confirm functional dyspepsia
Detailed Medical History
Exhaustive analysis of symptoms, duration, triggering factors, and medical background.
Alarm Signs
Identification of symptoms requiring immediate study: weight loss, dysphagia, anemia, persistent vomiting.
Diagnostic Gastroscopy
Endoscopy at Fuensanta and San Rafael Hospitals with state-of-the-art equipment.
Helicobacter pylori Test
Detection and eradication if present, may improve symptoms in some cases.
Complete Blood Work
Laboratory study to rule out metabolic or inflammatory alterations.
Abdominal Ultrasound
Evaluation of abdominal organs to rule out structural pathology.
Diagnosis of exclusion: Functional dyspepsia is confirmed after ruling out organic causes through normal gastroscopy and absence of alterations in complementary tests.
Specific Therapeutic Approach
Treatment according to subtype and predominant symptoms of each patient
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI)
First LineEspecially effective in Epigastric Pain Syndrome
- Omeprazole, esomeprazole, pantoprazole
- Initial duration: 4-8 weeks
- Improvement in 40-50% of cases
Prokinetics
PDSTo improve gastric emptying in Postprandial Distress Syndrome
- Domperidone, metoclopramide
- Improve gastric motility
- Reduce fullness sensation
Neuromodulators
Low-dose tricyclic antidepressants for resistant cases
- Amitriptyline, nortriptyline
- Visceral pain control
- Evaluation at 4-6 weeks
H. pylori Eradication
If present, its eradication may improve symptoms
- Triple or quadruple therapy
- Improvement in ~10% of cases
- Eradication confirmation
Small, Frequent Meals
Reduce meal volume to minimize gastric distension
- 5-6 small meals per day
- Avoid large meals
- Light dinners
Fat Reduction
Limit high-fat foods that delay gastric emptying
- Avoid fried and very fatty foods
- Prefer steamed or grilled cooking
- Limit sauces and creams
Avoid Triggers
Identify and eliminate foods that worsen symptoms
- Spicy foods and strong spices
- Coffee and caffeinated beverages
- Alcohol and carbonated drinks
Proper Chewing
Eat slowly and chew food well
- Chew each bite slowly
- Eat in a calm environment
- Avoid distractions during meals
Stress Management
ImportantStress and anxiety can significantly worsen symptoms
- Relaxation techniques
- Mindfulness and meditation
- Work stress management
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Effective in cases with significant psychological component
- Modification of dysfunctional thoughts
- Coping strategies
- Improves quality of life
Regular Physical Exercise
Moderate physical activity can improve digestive motility
- 30 minutes daily activity
- Moderate aerobic exercise
- Avoid intense exercise after meals
Evaluation and Treatment at INMEQ
Complete In-Person Consultation
- Detailed clinical evaluation
- Personalized diagnostic plan
- Identification of alarm signs
- Initial therapeutic guidance
28002 Madrid
Follow-up Consultation
- Medical history review
- Test analysis
- Treatment adjustment
- Questions resolution
Real Testimonial
Dr. Pedro de María Pallarés' talent shines from afar. EXCELLENT human and professional care in Gastroenterology. I was misdiagnosed (with treatment included) for more than 5 years and he has provided the solution to my problem; he has withdrawn my pills and given me wise advice to improve my health and well-being. I recommend him 💯 Thank you.
Questions about Functional Dyspepsia
Functional dyspepsia is a digestive function disorder without visible lesions on endoscopy, while gastritis is actual inflammation of the gastric mucosa observed and confirmed by biopsy. It's important to differentiate them because treatment may vary.
Yes, gastroscopy is essential to confirm functional dyspepsia diagnosis, as it allows ruling out organic causes such as ulcers, esophagitis, significant gastritis, or tumors. A normal endoscopic study is required to establish the functional diagnosis.
Functional dyspepsia is a chronic condition, but with appropriate treatment most patients achieve excellent symptom control and maintain good quality of life. Personalized therapeutic approach and specialized follow-up are key to long-term success.
Response time varies according to subtype and treatment used. With proton pump inhibitors, improvement can be observed in 2-4 weeks. Prokinetics usually act faster. Neuromodulators require 4-6 weeks to evaluate their effectiveness. Follow-up allows treatment adjustment if necessary.
Yes, there is a significant relationship between stress and functional dyspepsia. The brain-gut axis plays an important role in these functional disorders. Stress, anxiety, and psychosocial factors can trigger or worsen symptoms, so their management is an integral part of treatment.
Although response is individual, it's generally recommended to reduce: fatty foods, fried foods, spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, carbonated beverages, and very large meals. It's important to identify each patient's specific triggers through a symptom diary.