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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Dyspepsia and GORD?

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Dyspepsia and GORD (Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease) are both conditions related to the gastrointestinal tract, but they have distinct differences:

Dyspepsia:

  • Refers to a group of symptoms that affect the upper gastrointestinal tract, including pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen, nausea, and bloating.
  • Functional dyspepsia is diagnosed when endoscopic investigation excludes gastric or duodenal ulcer, malignancy, or esophagitis.
  • About 70 to 80 percent of people with dyspepsia symptoms have functional dyspepsia, which means there may be a problem with how their digestive system works, rather than a problem that can be seen and diagnosed.

GORD:

  • A chronic condition where gastric juices from the stomach (usually acidic) flow back up to the esophagus.
  • Common symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, and an acidic or bitter taste in the mouth.
  • GORD can cause severe or frequent symptoms, or damage the esophagus.

While both conditions can cause discomfort and pain in the upper abdomen, GORD is specifically characterized by the backflow of gastric juices into the esophagus, leading to heartburn and other symptoms. In contrast, dyspepsia is a broader term that encompasses various symptoms related to the upper gastrointestinal tract, and it does not have the same characteristic backflow of gastric juices.

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  • What is the Difference Between Dyspepsia and GORD?
  • Comparative Table: Dyspepsia vs GORD

    • Comparative Table: Dyspepsia vs GORD

    Dyspepsia and Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD) are two common digestive conditions that can cause discomfort in the upper abdomen. Here is a table highlighting the differences between the two:

    Dyspepsia GORD
    Describes a range of symptoms arising from the upper gastrointestinal tract, including upper abdominal pain or discomfort, heartburn, and acid reflux, but does not have a universally accepted definition. A medical condition that causes stomach contents to reflux up into the esophagus.
    Symptoms last for 4 weeks or more. Symptoms may include heartburn, sour belches, and a chronic cough or hoarseness.
    Underlying causes include gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), peptic ulcer disease, Barrett's esophagus, and upper gastrointestinal cancers. Risk factors include obesity, family history of GORD, and certain medications.
    Around 70 to 80% of people with dyspepsia symptoms have functional dyspepsia, where their endoscopy results are normal. Around 50 to 60% of people with dyspepsia symptoms have functional or nonulcer dyspepsia, where a specific etiology is not identified.
    Treatment options may include lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medicines, and prescribed medicines. Treatment options may include lifestyle changes, medications, and in some cases, surgery.

    In summary, dyspepsia is a group of symptoms arising from the upper gastrointestinal tract, while GORD is a specific condition that causes stomach contents to reflux up into the esophagus. Dyspepsia can be caused by various factors, including GORD, peptic ulcer disease, and other gastrointestinal conditions, while GORD is typically associated with risk factors such as obesity and family history. Treatment options for both conditions may include lifestyle changes, medications, and, in some cases, surgery.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.