Gastroparesis is a stomach disorder in which the
stomach takes too long in emptying its contents. If
food remains in the stomach for too long, it can cause
problems such as bacterial overgrowth from the
fermentation of the food.
Causes
Gastroparesis occurs when the nerves to the stomach
are damaged or don't work. Diabetes is the most common
cause.
Symptoms
The following are the most common symptoms of
gastroparesis. However, each individual may experience
symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
Nausea
Vomiting
Feeling full early when eating
Abdominal bloating
Heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux
Lack of appetite
Treatment
Gastroparesis is usually a chronic condition, so
treatment does not cure it, but rather helps the
patient manage the condition. In gastroparesis related
to diabetes, the primary goal is to regain control of
the blood glucose levels.
Treatment may include:
medications: Several medications are used to treat
gastroparesis. Your physician may prescribe
combinations of medications or different medications
to determine which is the most effective. anti-emetics
such as prochlorperazine, which help control nausea
and vomiting, and prokinetics, which stimulate
contractions of the stomach muscles.
Changing eating habits can also help control
gastroparesis. Sometimes, eating six smaller meals a
day is more effective than eating three larger ones.
Some physicians recommend several liquid meals a day
until blood glucose levels are stable and
gastroparesis is stable. Your physician may also
recommend avoiding fatty and high-fiber foods, as
these can slow digestion and be difficult to digest.
