Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
Dyspepsia
CHRONIC INDIGESTION
Indigestion, particularly heartburn, is a common condition said to affect one in three of us each month
What is dyspepsia?
Dyspepsia, also known as chronic indigestion, refers to many different symptoms that cause discomfort or pain in the upper abdominal regions, such as the top part of your bowel (duodenum) or food pipe (oesophagus). The most common cause of dyspepsia is an excessive production of stomach acid or an over-sensitivity to this acid.
Need to know
Symptoms may include:
- excessive belching
- bloating
- fullness
- stomach pains
- nausea, or even vomiting after eating
There are a number of factors that are thought to make the symptoms worse including increased air swallowing, poor relaxation of the stomach after eating, a high-fat diet, alcohol and fizzy drinks, obesity, stress, certain infections, stomach ulcers, a hiatus hernia and some medications.
The most common test for dyspepsia is an upper gastrointestinal Endoscopy. In this test a flexible telescope is passed via your mouth into your stomach and small intestine. Biopsies are taken at the same time. Other tests include an ultrasound or CT scan of your abdomen or the barium swallow test.
Treatments vary depending on the severity of your symptoms, but include:
- simple steps such as altering your diet or losing weight
- over-the-counter medications including antacids to reduce your amount of stomach acid
- if the indigestion is being caused by a bacterial infection stronger antacids or antibiotics may be prescribed by your consultant
- Anti-reflux surgery
If lifestyle changes and medications fail to relieve your symptoms, your consultant may recommend surgery. This involves creating a more effective valve between your oesophagus and stomach, called fundoplication. It is performed laparoscopically (as keyhole surgery).
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.