Summary about Disease
Gastroparesis is a condition that affects the stomach's ability to empty its contents normally. It's also known as delayed gastric emptying. This happens even though there is no blockage or obstruction in the stomach. The stomach muscles, controlled by the vagus nerve, don't work properly, slowing down or stopping the movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of gastroparesis include:
Nausea
Vomiting (sometimes undigested food)
Feeling full quickly when eating
Abdominal bloating
Abdominal pain
Heartburn or acid reflux
Changes in blood sugar levels
Poor appetite
Weight loss
Causes
The exact cause of gastroparesis is often unknown (idiopathic). However, some known or suspected causes include:
Diabetes (most common known cause): High blood sugar levels can damage the vagus nerve.
Surgery: Surgery on the stomach or vagus nerve.
Medications: Some medications, such as opioids, certain antidepressants, and some allergy medications.
Nervous system diseases: Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis.
Viral infections: Some viral infections can temporarily slow down stomach emptying.
Scleroderma: A connective tissue disorder.
Hypothyroidism: Underactive thyroid.
Medicine Used
Medications used to manage gastroparesis symptoms may include:
Prokinetics: Medications like metoclopramide (Reglan) and domperidone help to stimulate stomach muscle contractions and speed up gastric emptying. (Domperidone use is restricted in some countries)
Antiemetics: Medications like ondansetron (Zofran), promethazine (Phenergan), or prochlorperazine (Compazine) help to reduce nausea and vomiting.
Pain relievers: Pain medications may be prescribed to manage abdominal pain.
Other medications: Medications to manage underlying conditions like diabetes, which may be contributing to gastroparesis.
Is Communicable
Gastroparesis is not communicable. It is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Precautions and lifestyle modifications to manage gastroparesis include:
Eating smaller, more frequent meals.
Chewing food thoroughly.
Avoiding high-fat foods, which can slow down gastric emptying.
Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
Avoiding carbonated beverages, which can cause bloating.
Avoiding alcohol and smoking.
Sitting up for at least an hour after eating.
Managing underlying conditions, such as diabetes.
Discussing medications with your doctor, as some medications can worsen gastroparesis.
How long does an outbreak last?
Gastroparesis is not an "outbreak" situation like an infectious disease. It is a chronic condition. Symptoms can fluctuate in severity, with periods of remission and exacerbation. The duration of symptoms varies greatly from person to person and depends on the underlying cause and effectiveness of treatment.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis of gastroparesis typically involves:
Medical history and physical examination: The doctor will ask about symptoms and medical history.
Gastric emptying study: This is the most important test. It measures the rate at which food empties from the stomach. A small amount of radioactive material is mixed with food, and a scanner tracks the food's movement through the digestive system.
Upper endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum to visualize the lining and rule out any blockages or other structural problems.
Upper GI series (Barium swallow): X-rays are taken after the patient drinks a barium solution, which coats the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. This helps visualize the structures and identify any abnormalities.
Blood tests: To check for underlying conditions like diabetes, thyroid problems, or electrolyte imbalances.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies significantly from person to person. Some individuals may experience symptoms intermittently, while others have persistent symptoms. There is no set timeline for the onset, progression, or resolution of symptoms. Symptoms may develop gradually or suddenly, and their severity can fluctuate over time.
Important Considerations
Gastroparesis can significantly impact quality of life.
Management often involves a combination of dietary modifications, medications, and, in some cases, surgical interventions.
It's important to work closely with a gastroenterologist and a registered dietitian to develop an individualized treatment plan.
Managing underlying conditions, such as diabetes, is crucial.
Nutritional support may be necessary for individuals who are unable to maintain adequate nutrition through oral intake. Options include feeding tubes (jejunostomy tube) or intravenous nutrition (TPN).