What Is Non-Ulcer Dyspepsia? | inSite Digestive Health Care

Non-Ulcer Dyspepsia, also known as functional dyspepsia, is best described as having symptoms of indigestion and pain similar to that of an ulcer – but with no sign of damage to the esophagus, stomach, or other GI organs. Individuals with NUD may suffer from long-lasting episodes of upper abdominal indigestion characterized by discomfort, pain, nausea, bloating, and heartburn. There is currently no obvious cause for symptoms of NUD, and as much as 20% of the population may have some degree of dyspepsia.

Possible Causes

While there is no known cause for NUD, experts have come up with a few theories for possible causes. For one, digestion occurs by a coordination of contractions (peristalsis) and activities that are controlled by various nerves, hormones, and other mediators in each area of the GI tract. Irritants to any of these control mechanisms might contribute to NUD symptoms.

Another possible cause is the improper function of the muscles in the stomach wall. Sometimes the nerves in the lining of the stomach are unusually sensitive to chemicals in food, and send signals to the brain that can induce queasiness, heaviness, burning or pain. Abnormal peristalsis can occur if there is a change in one’s eating habits (too often, too fast etc.), or if a person is under stress. NUD might also be a consequence of a prior “stomach flu” or “food poisoning” episode that occurred years before. After such bouts, 5-10% of people who previously did not suffer from indigestion, now have some sensitive stomach symptoms which qualify as NUD.

Risk Factors

Other possible risk factors include genetic predisposition and stress.