Diagnosing Dyspepsia: What Tests Do You Need?
Diagnosing Dyspepsia: What Tests Do You Need?
What's This About?
Diagnosing dyspepsia can involve various tests depending on your symptoms and age. Here's what you need to know about the evaluation process.
Contents
- Initial Evaluation Steps
- When is Endoscopy Needed?
- Tests for H. pylori
Initial Evaluation Steps
If you experience dyspepsia, the first step is a detailed history and physical examination. This helps identify any alarm features that might indicate a more serious condition. Blood tests may also be performed to rule out metabolic causes.
When is Endoscopy Needed?
For patients over 60, or those with alarm features like significant weight loss, an endoscopy is recommended. This procedure can help rule out conditions like peptic ulcers or cancer. In younger patients, endoscopy is more selective.
Tests for H. pylori
H. pylori is a bacterium that can cause ulcers and needs specific tests like a urea breath test or stool antigen assay. Identifying and treating H. pylori can relieve symptoms for some patients.
FAQs
Do all dyspepsia patients need an endoscopy?
No, it's mainly for those over 60 or with alarm features.
What is an alarm feature?
Symptoms like significant weight loss or persistent vomiting.
What tests check for H. pylori?
Urea breath test and stool antigen assay.
Are blood tests necessary?
Yes, they help rule out metabolic causes.
Wrapping Up
Early diagnosis and appropriate testing can make managing dyspepsia easier.
Additional References
- Talley NJ, Vakil NB, Moayyedi P. Evaluation of dyspepsia. Gastroenterology 2005; 129:1756.
- Malfertheiner P, Megraud F, O'Morain CA. Management of H. pylori infection. Gut 2012; 61:646.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.