Symptoms of Gastroparesis
Summary: Gastroparesis, also known as delayed stomach emptying, is a condition where the stomach takes too long to empty its contents. Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, a feeling of fullness, and weight loss. It’s essential to seek medical advice for diagnosis and treatment options.
What Is Gastroparesis?
Gastroparesis is a medical condition that slows down the movement of food from your stomach to your small intestine. So, instead of your stomach emptying at a normal rate, the process takes much longer than it should. This delay can result in a variety of uncomfortable and often concerning symptoms.
The Common Signs of Gastroparesis
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea is a frequent symptom you’ll notice when dealing with gastroparesis. You might feel like throwing up, especially after meals. Sometimes, you may even vomit undigested food, which is a telltale sign of this condition.
Feeling Full Too Soon
Another symptom you might encounter is a feeling of fullness after eating only a small amount of food. This happens because your stomach isn’t emptying as quickly as it should, making you feel stuffed even when you haven’t eaten much.
Unplanned Weight Loss
In people with gastroparesis, losing weight without trying is common. Because you’re not eating as much or you’re vomiting frequently, you can end up losing weight. This is a serious symptom and should not be ignored.
Abdominal Pain or Discomfort
Examples of discomfort include a bloated feeling or even mild to severe pain in the stomach area. This happens because food stays in the stomach for too long, causing distress.
Heartburn
The delay in stomach emptying can cause stomach acids to build up, resulting in heartburn. You may experience a burning sensation in your chest or throat as a result.
Lack of Appetite
Since you often feel full and may even feel nauseous, your appetite can significantly decrease. This can further exacerbate weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.
Less Common Symptoms of Gastroparesis
Gastrointestinal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Although not directly a symptom of gastroparesis, GERD often accompanies it. The delayed emptying can lead to acid reflux, where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus.
Blood Sugar Fluctuations
For diabetics, gastroparesis can result in unpredictable changes in blood sugar levels. The delay in stomach emptying makes it difficult to manage insulin and medication effectively.
Malnutrition
When your stomach doesn’t empty correctly, you’re not getting the nutrients you need. Over time, this can result in malnutrition, affecting your overall health.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, especially for an extended period, it’s crucial to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Tests such as a gastric emptying scan or endoscopy can help diagnose gastroparesis and rule out other conditions.
So, if you find yourself dealing with persistent nausea, feeling full too soon, or noticing unplanned weight loss, don’t hesitate to get medical help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes Gastroparesis?
Gastroparesis can be caused by a variety of factors. For some, it’s linked to other health conditions like diabetes or nerve damage. In other cases, it can be idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown. Certain medications, like opioid pain relievers or some antidepressants, can also contribute to delayed stomach emptying.
How Is Gastroparesis Diagnosed?
Diagnosing gastroparesis usually involves a series of tests. A healthcare provider may recommend a gastric emptying study, which tracks how quickly food leaves your stomach. An endoscopy might also be performed to look for obstructions. Blood tests can rule out other potential causes of your symptoms.
Can Gastroparesis Be Cured?
Unfortunately, there’s no cure for gastroparesis. However, various treatment options can help manage the symptoms. These include dietary changes, medications, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions like a gastric pacemaker. The goal is to make you as comfortable as possible and to ensure that you’re getting the nutrition you need.
What Foods Should You Avoid?
If you have gastroparesis, it’s advisable to steer clear of high-fiber and high-fat foods. These types of foods are harder for the stomach to process, which can exacerbate your symptoms. Instead, opt for easily digestible foods like lean meats, well-cooked vegetables, and low-fat dairy products.
Is Exercise Beneficial for Managing Symptoms?
Exercise can be helpful in managing the symptoms of gastroparesis, especially mild to moderate walking after meals. Physical activity can aid in the digestive process and may help your stomach empty more quickly.
