Gastroparesis is when your stomach takes too long to empty food after you eat. This usually happens without any physical obstruction in the digestive system. Symptoms often include nausea, stomach pain, and bloating. It’s estimated that about 2% of Americans might have gastroparesis, with women being more commonly affected than men.
The exact cause of gastroparesis isn’t known yet, but some researchers think it could be linked to diabetes. Although we don’t fully understand how to treat gastroparesis, there are therapies that can help alleviate the symptoms.
People with gastroparesis can have different symptoms, and they can vary depending on how severe the condition is. Mild cases may cause occasional stomach discomfort, while more severe cases might involve nausea and trouble finishing meals.
Normally, food should move from the stomach to the small intestine within a few hours after eating, which involves a lot of coordination between your nerves and stomach and intestinal muscles. Researchers believe that something interrupts this emptying process in gastroparesis.
Diabetes is often linked to gastroparesis, with type 1 diabetics being at higher risk than those with type 2. This might be due to nerve damage from high blood sugar levels, affecting how the stomach processes digestion.
While diabetes is a common cause, gastroparesis can also result from other factors, including certain medications. Many medications can either cause or worsen gastroparesis temporarily.
Often, gastroparesis is considered idiopathic, meaning the underlying cause isn’t known. If you think you have gastroparesis, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for tests and to rule out other conditions that might cause similar symptoms.
Getting a proper diagnosis can be tricky since gastroparesis symptoms often resemble those of other health issues. However, research is ongoing, and there’s hope for more accurate diagnosis and treatment.
While there’s no cure for gastroparesis, treatments can help manage symptoms. Your treatment will depend on your specific symptoms and how severe they are. Options may include dietary changes, medications, and certain procedures.
Dietary adjustments are crucial for managing gastroparesis. A healthcare provider might suggest you eat foods that are easy to mash, like soft potatoes, and avoid foods with tough parts like peels or seeds. Soups can be a great option as they help the stomach empty more easily.
If diet alone isn’t enough, medication may be needed to reduce nausea and vomiting and assist the stomach in emptying properly. Your healthcare provider can prescribe the best medication for you.
In severe cases, specific medical procedures might help. Research indicates that people with poorly controlled diabetes are at higher risk of developing gastroparesis. It’s important for those with diabetes to maintain good blood sugar levels to avoid complications.
Even though the cause of gastroparesis isn’t fully understood, maintaining a nutritious diet, exercising, and staying hydrated can support your digestive health.
Some medical conditions are more common in people with gastroparesis. If diagnosed, discussing ways to reduce the risk of these conditions with your healthcare provider is advisable.
The chronic nausea and pain linked to gastroparesis can negatively impact life quality. Existing treatments may not always eliminate symptoms. However, ongoing research looks promising for developing new treatments.
It can be tough to avoid foods that worsen symptoms, but working with a nutritionist can help tailor a diet plan for you. If gastroparesis impacts your emotional well-being, reaching out to a support group or a mental health professional can provide added support.
