Clinical Challenge of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

Abstract

Functional gastrointestinal disorders present a clinical challenge. Management requires understanding and interest, thorough examination of the patient, appropriate symptomatic care, and skillful attention to the emotional problems present. Failure to recognize emotionally induced problems may lead to irreversible surgically induced difficulties. Persistent symptoms usually signify an incorrect diagnosis and the presence of organic disease, unidentified emotional problems, or an unsatisfactory patient-physician relationship.