What is Gastroparesis?
Gastroparesis is a condition in which the stomach takes longer than normal to empty its contents into the small intestine. The delay in gastric emptying can result in various adverse symptoms.
Causes of Gastroparesis:
The causes of gastroparesis can vary and may include prior damage to the vagus nerve, which is responsible for controlling the muscles of the stomach, certain medications that affect stomach motility, diabetes, autoimmune diseases and/or surgery on the stomach or vagus nerve.
Around one third of those with diabetes, whether Type 1 or Type 2, develop gastroparesis, as it’s a type of diabetes-related neuropathy, meaning that it can occur as high blood sugar levels damage the nerves or blood vessels.
Viral or bacteria stomach infections like norovirus and rotavirus can also cause a bout of Gastroparesis, along with other less common causes like neurological diseases, collagen-vascular diseases, endocrine disorders, and/or cystic fibrosis.
Symptoms of Gastroparesis:
In gastroparesis, the delayed emptying of the stomach can cause:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain
- A feeling of fullness quickly when eating
- Fluctuations in blood sugar levels
Diagnosing Gastroparesis:
To accurately diagnose gastroparesis, your doctor will start with a physical exam, review of medical history and blood test to rule out a slew of other conditions. Imaging tests, like an endoscopy, MRI, CT scan, abdominal ultrasound, upper gastrointestinal barium contrast radiography (also known as a barium swallow test), wireless motility study, intraduodenal manometry, or gastric emptying studies, may also be recommended by your doctor to observe the flow of contents in your stomach and arrive at the most accurate diagnosis/assessment of your condition. During a gastric emptying study, a small amount of food containing a radioactive substance is eaten, and a special camera is used to track the movement of the food throughout the digestive system.
Treating Gastroparesis:
Treatment for gastroparesis aims to relieve symptoms and improve the motility of food in the stomach to further encourage timely emptying. Treatment methods may include dietary changes, such as eating smaller and more frequent meals, avoiding high-fat and/or high-fiber foods, and consuming liquid or pureed foods. Medications like prokinetic agents can help stimulate stomach contractions and promote emptying, and antiemetics may be recommended to control any nausea or vomiting you’re experiencing. Pain medications may also be prescribed depending on your specific condition of gastroparesis.
In some cases, more invasive treatment routes may be necessary, which can include botulinum toxin injections into the pyloric sphincter muscle to help relax it. It’s important for individuals experiencing symptoms of gastroparesis or with a gastroparesis diagnosis to work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and symptoms. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential to manage this condition successfully and effectively.