SAGES dyspepsia guidance

Authors

  • WM Simmonds University of the Free State
  • M Brand University of Pretoria
  • K Coovadia Mediclinic Panorama
  • V Lala University of the Witwatersrand
  • V Naidoo University of KwaZulu-Natal
  • N Seabi University of the Witwatersrand
  • M Setshedi University of Cape Town
  • M Sonderup University of Cape Town
  • G Watermeyer University of Cape Town
  • E Fredericks Nelson Mandela University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36303/SAJGH.2999

Keywords:

dyspepsia, guidelines

Abstract

Dyspepsia is a common condition characterised by upper abdominal symptoms, including epigastric pain, bloating, and nausea. This guidance document provides a framework for managing dyspepsia, emphasising initial clinical assessment, risk stratification, and tailored treatment approaches. Non-invasive testing for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and empiric proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy are recommended for low-risk patients. High-risk patients, or those with persistent symptoms, require upper endoscopy to evaluate for underlying pathology. Lifestyle and dietary modifications, acid suppression therapy, and H. pylori eradication therapy are the key treatment components. The guidance also outlines algorithms for managing dyspepsia, promoting informed decision-making and improving patient outcomes. By implementing these, healthcare practitioners can enhance patient care, alleviate symptoms, and improve the quality of life and health outcomes for patients with dyspepsia.

Author Biographies

WM Simmonds, University of the Free State

Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of the Free State, South Africa

M Brand, University of Pretoria

Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Pretoria, South Africa

K Coovadia, Mediclinic Panorama

Private Practice, Mediclinic Panorama, South Africa

V Lala, University of the Witwatersrand

Division of Gastroenterology, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa

V Naidoo, University of KwaZulu-Natal

Department of Gastroenterology, School of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

N Seabi, University of the Witwatersrand

Division of Gastroenterology, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa

M Setshedi, University of Cape Town

Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa

M Sonderup, University of Cape Town

Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa

G Watermeyer, University of Cape Town

Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa

E Fredericks, Nelson Mandela University

Department of Physiology, Nelson Mandela University, South Africa

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Published

2025-08-07

Issue

Section

Guidelines