Functional & Motility Disorders

Functional and motility disorders are conditions where the digestive tract appears normal but doesn’t work properly. These disorders affect the movement of food through the digestive system, often without visible signs of disease on routine tests.

Common Conditions Include:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Functional Dyspepsia (indigestion)
Gastroparesis
Esophageal motility disorders (e.g., achalasia)
Chronic constipation or diarrhea

Causes:

Abnormal nerve or muscle function in the gut
Stress and psychological factors
Infections or inflammation
Post-surgical changes
Hormonal imbalances
Genetic predisposition

Symptoms:

Abdominal pain or cramping
Bloating and gas
Nausea or vomiting
Early satiety (feeling full quickly)
Constipation or diarrhea
Difficulty swallowing

Diagnosis:

Diagnosis is made through a detailed history, physical examination, and specialized tests such as:

Manometry (measures pressure in the GI tract)
Gastric emptying studies
Breath tests
Endoscopy or colonoscopy to rule out other conditions

Treatments:

Dietary Changes: Low-FODMAP diet, high-fiber foods, or elimination diets
Medications: Prokinetics, antispasmodics, laxatives, or antidepressants (for gut-brain connection)
Behavioral Therapy: Stress management, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Biofeedback & Pelvic Floor Therapy (for certain motility disorders)
Botox Injections or Surgery: In select cases like achalasia

Prevention & Management Tips:

Eat small, frequent meals
Stay hydrated and maintain a fiber-rich diet
Avoid trigger foods (like caffeine, spicy or fatty meals)
Manage stress and maintain regular physical activity
Follow-up regularly with a gastroenterologist

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