Dyspepsia vs GERD: Epigastric Locus Helps Make Distinction
Chronic or recurrent pain or discomfort centered in the upper abdomen distinguishes dyspepsia from GERD, with a dominant symptom of heartburn.
Patients who present with predominant epigastric pain or discomfort but who have not undergone any investigations are most likely to have what condition?
a. Dyspepsia
b. GERD
c. Celiac disease
d. None of the above
ANSWER: A
Dyspepsia has been defined as chronic or recurrent pain or discomfort centered in the upper abdomen. In GERD, the dominant complaint typically is heartburn or acid regurgitation, although there may be a distinct epigastric component. Clinical trials in dyspepsia have used various definitions and often have not distinguished obvious GERD from dyspepsia.
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