Functional Dyspepsia: Words for the Follow-Up Conversation

If the appointment ends with a new diagnosis but you are still uncomfortable, you may want a clearer answer about what happens next. These example words are for a conversation after a clinician has diagnosed functional dyspepsia. Adapt them to what actually happened in your assessment.

First, clarify what the diagnosis means

NIDDK describes functional dyspepsia as a disorder of gut-brain interaction. A clinician may diagnose it when upper-abdominal pain, burning or discomfort, or feeling full too soon, cannot be explained by another cause. The assessment can include history, examination and selected tests. A single test result does not replace that clinical assessment.¹²

Reusable example words:

“I understand that you have diagnosed functional dyspepsia. Could you explain what supports that diagnosis in my case and which other explanations you have considered?”

Ask for the explanation in words you understand. Keep the names of completed tests and the clinician’s interpretation together.

Then describe what still needs help

The diagnostic history includes whether symptoms occur with meals, previous indigestion or H. pylori infection, medicines and family history. NIDDK says a clinician may recommend treatment when specific causes are not found.¹

Reusable example words:

“The part I most want help with is [describe your actual symptom and its effect]. It happens [your actual timing or frequency]. What is the plan for addressing it?”

Bring a few dated observations, your medicine list and any instructions you already received. Note uncertain timing as an estimate. Do not add symptoms to match a description you have read.

Agree on how the plan will be reviewed

Reusable example words:

“What should I do next, when should we review it, and what change should prompt me to contact you sooner? Who should I contact if I have questions before that review?”

Write down the agreed instructions. If the plan would be difficult to follow, explain why so that the clinician can discuss it with you. Ask the prescriber before changing any medicine.

Warning symptoms need prompt assessment

NIDDK advises seeing a doctor right away for indigestion with chest, jaw, neck or arm pain; swallowing difficulty or pain; frequent or bloody vomiting; severe constant abdominal pain; lasting abdominal swelling; breathlessness; unexplained weight or appetite loss; jaundice; or black, tarry stools. Report these rather than assuming the diagnosis explains them.²

Do not save those symptoms for a routine follow-up appointment.

Bloated by Dinner includes a Belly Clock log and a Test It list and visit script. Use them to organize your observations and questions alongside the clinician’s assessment and instructions. See the book.