Gastroparesis
Gastroparesis Causes
Chronic gastroparesis is usually due to autonomic neuropathy. This may happen in people with type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes. The vagus nerve becomes destroyed by years of high blood glucose, resulting in gastroparesis.
Gastroparesis Definition
Gastroparesis, also known as delayed gastric emptying, is a medical condition consisting of a paresis (partial paralysis) of the stomach ("gastro-"), resulting in food remaining in the stomach for a longer period of time than normal. Normally, the stomach contracts to move food down into the small intestine to digest, while the vagus nerve controls these contractions. Gastroparesis occurs when the vagus nerve is damaged and the muscles of the stomach and intestines do not function normally. Food then moves gradaully or stops moving through the digestive tract.
Gastroparesis Diagnosis
Gastroparesis can be diagnosed with tests like x rays, manometry, and gastric emptying scans.
Gastroparesis Symptoms and Signs
The most common symptoms are nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness after eating just a few bites. This condition also often causes abdominal bloating, heartburn, changes in blood sugar levels, lack of appetite, and weight loss and malnutrition.
Gastroparesis Treatment
Treatment includes dietary changes [low-fiber and low-residue diets, as well as (in some cases) restrictions on fat and/or solids], oral medications [Metoclopramide (Reglan, Maxolon, Clopra), Cisapride (Propulsid), Erythromycin (E-Mycin, Erythrocin, Ery-Tab, EES)], adjustments in insulin injections for people with diabetes, a jejunostomy tube, implanted gastric neurostimulators ("stomach pacemakers"), botulinum toxin, or parenteral nutrition.