Most patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs/DGBI), who often engage in healthcare-seeking behaviors such as doctor shopping, typically visit family physicians first. Therefore, family physicians thoroughly understand the FGID/DGBI pathophysiology and consistently apply appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. To accurately assess their condition, it is essential to conduct a thorough history-taking focused on symptom characteristics, along with inquiries into past medical and family history, followed by a detailed physical examination. When necessary, additional diagnostic evaluations such as blood tests, urinalysis, radiography, ultrasonography, CT scans, and gastrointestinal endoscopy should be considered. When diagnosing FGIDs/DGBI, the first step in treatment is to clearly and thoroughly explain the condition to the patient. Initiating pharmacotherapy without this explanation often results in suboptimal outcomes. Since stress is a common trigger, it is also important to emphasize lifestyle modifications and stress management. These efforts are crucial in preventing doctor shopping and ensuring patient satisfaction. Pharmacotherapy should follow established clinical practice guidelines for each condition. Kampo medicine can also be effective in the treatment of FGIDs. If pharmacotherapy proves ineffective, psychological factors may be significant. In such instances, psychological counseling by a clinical psychologist or referral to a psychiatrist should be considered. In summary, building and maintaining a strong patient-physician relationship is vitally important.

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Practical Treatment, Practice of Family Medicine

  • Akira Uehara

摘要

Most patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs/DGBI), who often engage in healthcare-seeking behaviors such as doctor shopping, typically visit family physicians first. Therefore, family physicians thoroughly understand the FGID/DGBI pathophysiology and consistently apply appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. To accurately assess their condition, it is essential to conduct a thorough history-taking focused on symptom characteristics, along with inquiries into past medical and family history, followed by a detailed physical examination. When necessary, additional diagnostic evaluations such as blood tests, urinalysis, radiography, ultrasonography, CT scans, and gastrointestinal endoscopy should be considered. When diagnosing FGIDs/DGBI, the first step in treatment is to clearly and thoroughly explain the condition to the patient. Initiating pharmacotherapy without this explanation often results in suboptimal outcomes. Since stress is a common trigger, it is also important to emphasize lifestyle modifications and stress management. These efforts are crucial in preventing doctor shopping and ensuring patient satisfaction. Pharmacotherapy should follow established clinical practice guidelines for each condition. Kampo medicine can also be effective in the treatment of FGIDs. If pharmacotherapy proves ineffective, psychological factors may be significant. In such instances, psychological counseling by a clinical psychologist or referral to a psychiatrist should be considered. In summary, building and maintaining a strong patient-physician relationship is vitally important.