Gastroparesis Disease Information

Gastroparesis is a long-term digestive disorder which interferes with the regular movement of food through the stomach. This happens when the stomach muscles are too weak to contract correctly, causing digestion to be delayed and food to stay in the stomach for a longer time. Typical signs of gastroparesis include queasiness, vomiting, bloating, abdominal discomfort, early fullness, and weight loss. Other symptoms may include heartburn, acid reflux, and difficulty swallowing. In some cases, people with gastroparesis may also suffer from dehydration, malnutrition, and low blood sugar. Gastroparesis is usually caused by underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, an autoimmune illness, or a nervous system disorder. It can also be caused by certain medications, such as narcotics and some antidepressants. Treatment for gastroparesis includes dietary adjustments, medications to reduce nausea and vomiting, and medications to help stimulate stomach contractions. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to help improve the symptoms of gastroparesis. Living with gastroparesis can be difficult, as it is a persistent and unpredictable condition. It is important for people with gastroparesis to work with their doctor to create a personalized treatment plan that meets their specific needs.

1. Idiopathic Gastroparesis: This type of gastroparesis is caused by an unknown cause and is the most common type of gastroparesis.
2. Diabetic Gastroparesis: This type of gastroparesis is caused by damage to the vagus nerve due to diabetes.
3. Post-surgical Gastroparesis: This type of gastroparesis is caused by damage to the vagus nerve due to surgery.
4. Drug-induced Gastroparesis: This type of gastroparesis is caused by certain medications, such as narcotics and antidepressants.
5. Gastroparesis Due to Systemic Disease: This type of gastroparesis is caused by a systemic disease, such as scleroderma, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis.

1. Nausea
2. Vomiting
3. Abdominal pain
4. Bloating
5. Early satiety (feeling full after only a few bites of food)
6. Acid reflux
7. Weight loss
8. Poor appetite
9. Heartburn
10. Intolerance to fatty foods
11. Erratic blood sugar levels
12. Gastric stasis (in which food moves too slowly through the stomach)
13. Malnutrition
14. Dehydration
15. Constipation
16. Diarrhea

The diagnosis of gastroparesis typically begins with a physical examination and going over one's medical history. To confirm the diagnosis, your doctor may also order tests, such as an upper endoscopy, gastric emptying study, ultrasound, blood tests, gastric manometry, and gastric electrical stimulation. An upper endoscopy involves inserting a thin, flexible tube through the mouth to observe the stomach and small intestine. A gastric emptying study involves ingesting a radioactive material and tracking it over a few hours to determine how quickly the stomach empties. An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to generate images of the stomach and intestines. Blood tests are conducted to look for signs of infection or other underlying conditions. Gastric manometry requires inserting a thin tube through the nose and into the stomach to measure the pressure and movement of the stomach muscles. Lastly, gastric electrical stimulation entails implanting a device in the abdomen to stimulate the stomach muscles and improve digestion.

Gastroparesis is a disorder in which the stomach takes an excessive amount of time to void its contents. This can result in a range of symptoms such as feeling ill, vomiting, abdominal pain, bloating, feeling full after consuming only a small amount of food, and losing weight. Gastroparesis can also lead to malnutrition and dehydration, as well as an increased chance of getting GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and other gastrointestinal issues.

Gastroparesis is usually managed with a blend of dietary changes and medicine. Dietary alterations may include consuming smaller, more recurrent meals and avoiding high-fat, high-fiber, and gas-producing foods. Medications may include metoclopramide and domperidone to help control sickness and vomiting, prokinetic agents to help the stomach empty faster, and antiemetics to control nausea and vomiting. In some cases, surgery may be required to aid the stomach empty more rapidly.

1. Consume small, regular meals: Eating multiple small meals during the day can help decrease nausea and provide a more consistent source of nutrition.
2. Refrain from high-fat and high-fiber foods: High-fat and high-fiber foods can be difficult to digest and can worsen gastroparesis symptoms.
3. Select nutrient-rich foods: Consuming nutrient-rich foods such as lean proteins, low-sugar fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats can provide essential nutrients while reducing digestive issues.
4. Abstain from carbonated beverages: Carbonated beverages can cause bloating and discomfort, so it’s best to stay away from them.
5. Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated can help stop dehydration and lessen constipation, which can aggravate gastroparesis symptoms.
6. Exercise frequently: Regular exercise can help enhance digestion and lessen constipation.
7. Manage stress: Stress can worsen gastroparesis symptoms, so it’s essential to find ways to manage stress.
8. Consider medications: There are various medications available to help manage gastroparesis symptoms. Your doctor can help you decide which medication is right for you.
9. Get enough rest: Getting enough rest can help reduce stress and improve digestion.
10. Speak to your doctor: If you are having difficulty managing your symptoms, speak to your doctor. They can assist you in finding the best treatment plan for your individual needs.