ABSTRACT

Dyspepsia (or indigestion) refers to a wide array of upper gastrointestinal tract symptoms, which may be caused by a large number of disorders. Typical symptoms include abdominal discomfort related to meals (or at certain times of the day), anorexia, vomiting, bloating, belching and heartburn. Dyspepsia is common (approximately 30% of the population are affected; about 5% consult their doctor). The personal and economic burden to patients and health carers is considerable.