Gastroparesis is an ailment characterized by the delayed emptying of food in the stomach. This is due to the weakening or abnormality of the stomach muscles. Even today, there is no cure for the condition but treatment can help manage the symptoms.
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The precise cause of gastroparesis is still unknown but it is believed to be linked to a disruption of the nerve signals in the stomach. It is suspected that the vagus nerve which controls food movement via the digestive tract is damaged and causes the food to be slowly digested or not at all.
Who are at risk?
Certain health ailments can make it difficult for the stomach to empty, thus increasing the risk for developing gastroparesis. The usual risk factors include:
- Infection
- Diabetes
- Parkinson’s disease
- Some treatments for cancer
- Medications that slow down stomach emptying
- Hypothyroidism or an overly active thyroid
Indications of gastroparesis
The indications of gastroparesis can range from minor to severe. The condition occurs more often in some individuals than others. The indications that might arise include:
- Nausea
- Upper abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Vomiting
- Heartburn
- Excess gas
- Appetite loss
- Swollen abdomen
- Malnutrition
- Changes in the blood sugar levels
- Unintentional weight loss
- Sensation of being full after eating little
Management
If the condition is brought about by a condition such as diabetes, the initial step is to control the underlying condition. Once this is done, the doctor might recommend medications, dietary changes and even surgery in some instances.
Medications
The doctor might prescribe one or several medications to manage gastroparesis such as prochlorperazine and diphenhydramine. These are given to control nausea and vomiting.
Other medications such as metoclopramide and cisapride stimulate the stomach muscles and assist with digestion.
Dietary changes
A dietitian must be consulted which is part of the treatment for gastroparesis. Suitable foods are recommended that the body can easily digest so that more nutrients are absorbed. Other suggestions by the dietitian might include:
- Eating low-fat foods
- Eating well-cooked fruits and vegetables to reduce the amount of fiber they contain
- Drinking water during a meal
- Eating smaller meals more often
- Avoiding foods that contain a lot of fiber such as oranges and broccoli
In severe cases, the individual could not eat solid foods and liquids. In such instances, a feeding tube is placed until the condition improves.
Surgery
In case vomiting or malnutrition remains an issue even if medications are used, the doctor might suggest surgery if needed. The objective of surgery is to allow the stomach to empty more effectively. The procedure might involve stapling of the stomach or a stomach bypass.