Gastroparesis

HomeDigestive system diseasesGastroparesis

Gastroparesis is a condition characterized by delayed gastric emptying, resulting in impaired movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine. It can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and early satiety.

Symptoms

Symptoms of dyspepsia include:

Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Feeling full shortly after starting a meal (early satiety)
Bloating and abdominal distension
Heartburn or GERD

Causes

Gastroparesis can be caused by various factors, including:

Damage to the vagus nerve (involved in stomach muscles)
Diabetes mellitus
Post-surgical complications
Medications such as opioids or certain antidepressants
Infectious gastroenteritis is a common trigger as well
The majority of cases are idipathic

Risk Factors

Risk factors for gastroparesis include diabetes, certain medications, previous stomach surgery, and autoimmune diseases.

Investigations

Diagnosing gastroparesis may involve:

Gastric emptying studies to measure the rate at which food leaves the stomach.
Upper endoscopy to evaluate for structural abnormalities or inflammation.
Blood tests to assess for diabetes or other underlying conditions.

Management

Management of gastroparesis typically includes:

Dietary modifications, such as consuming smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding high-fiber or high-fat foods.
Medications to stimulate gastric emptying or manage symptoms like nausea and vomiting.
Surgical options such as gastric electrical stimulation in a case where the condition persists despite treatment.