Overview

Nonulcer stomach pain is a term for recurring signs and symptoms of indigestion that have no obvious cause. Nonulcer stomach pain is also called functional dyspepsia (dis-PEP-see-uh) or nonulcer dyspepsia.

Nonulcer stomach pain is common and can be long lasting. The condition can cause signs and symptoms that resemble those of an ulcer, such as pain or discomfort in your upper abdomen, often accompanied by bloating, belching and nausea.

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Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of nonulcer stomach pain may include:

• A burning sensation or discomfort in your upper abdomen or lower chest, sometimes relieved by food or antacids
• Bloating
• Belching
• An early feeling of fullness when eating
• Nausea

When to see a doctor

Make an appointment with your doctor if you experience persistent signs and symptoms that worry you.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Bloody vomit
• Dark, tarry stools
• Shortness of breath
• Pain that radiates to your jaw, neck or arm
• Unexplained weight loss

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Causes

It's not clear what causes nonulcer stomach pain. Doctors consider it a functional disorder, which means it's not found to be caused by a specific disease or diagnosable disorder.

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Diagnosis

Your doctor will likely review your signs and symptoms and perform a physical examination. A number of diagnostic tests may help your doctor determine the cause of your discomfort and rule out other disorders causing similar symptoms. These may include:

• Blood tests. Blood tests may help rule out other diseases that can cause signs and symptoms similar to those of nonulcer stomach pain.
• Tests for a bacterium. Your doctor may recommend a test to look for a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) that can cause stomach problems. H. pylori testing may use your blood, stool or breath.
• Using a scope to examine your digestive system. A thin, flexible, lighted instrument (endoscope) is passed down your throat so that your doctor can view your esophagus, stomach and the first part of your small intestine (duodenum). This will also allow the doctor to collect small pieces of tissue from your duodenum to look for inflammation.

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Alternative medicine

People with nonulcer stomach pain often turn to complementary and alternative medicine to help them cope. No complementary or alternative treatments are proved to cure nonulcer stomach pain. But when used along with your doctor's care, complementary and alternative treatments may provide relief from your signs and symptoms.

If you're interested in complementary and alternative treatments, talk to your doctor about:

• Herbal supplements. Herbal remedies that may be of some benefit for nonulcer stomach pain include a combination of angelica, peppermint leaf, clown's mustard plant, German chamomile, caraway, licorice, milk thistle, celandine and lemon balm. These supplements may relieve some of the symptoms of nonulcer stomach pain, such as fullness and gastrointestinal spasms.

  Artichoke leaf extract may reduce other symptoms of nonulcer stomach pain, including vomiting, nausea and abdominal pain.

• Relaxation techniques. Activities that help you relax may help you control and cope with your signs and symptoms. Consider trying meditation, yoga or other activities that may help reduce your stress levels.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Lifestyle and home remedies

Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to help you control your nonulcer stomach pain.

Make changes to your diet

Changes to your diet and how you eat might help control your signs and symptoms. Consider trying to:

• Eat smaller, more-frequent meals. Having an empty stomach can sometimes produce nonulcer stomach pain. Nothing but acid in your stomach may make you feel sick. Try eating a small snack, such as a cracker or a piece of fruit.

  Avoid skipping meals. Avoid large meals and overeating. Eat smaller meals more frequently.

• Avoid trigger foods. Some foods may trigger nonulcer stomach pain, such as fatty and spicy foods, carbonated beverages, caffeine, and alcohol.
• Chew your food slowly and thoroughly. Allow time for leisurely meals.

Reduce stress in your daily life

Stress-reduction techniques may help you control your signs and symptoms. To reduce stress, spend time doing things that you enjoy, such as hobbies or sports. Relaxation therapy or yoga also may help.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Risk factors

Factors that can increase the risk of nonulcer stomach pain include:

• Female sex
• Older age
• Use of certain over-the-counter pain relievers, such as aspirin and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others), which can cause stomach problems
• Smoking
• Anxiety or depression
• History of childhood physical or sexual abuse