Psycho-gastroenterology

Abstract

Epidemiological studies have indicated that there is a convincing association between psychological disorders, particularly anxiety and depression, and functional dyspepsia. Bidirectional gut-brain signals are processed by homeostaticinteroceptive brain regions in humans, and these areas show abnormalities in patients with functional dyspepsia. The evidence warrants use of a biopsychosocial model for the research and treatment of patients with functional dyspepsia. Some types of antidepressants are effective for improving symptoms and quality of life. However, these agents should be cautiously used in patients with comorbid psychological conditions due to their high rates of adverse effects. Psychological interventions in patients with functional dyspepsia remain under-researched, but cognitive behavioral therapy may ameliorate distress due to symptoms and improve health-­ related quality of life in some refractory patients. Understanding of the neurogastroenterological mechanism will help to elucidate the association between psychological disorders and functional dyspepsia.