GastroparesisNot what you're looking for? Show
What is gastroparesis?Gastroparesis is a stomach disorder. It happens when your stomach takes too long to empty out food. If food stays in your stomach for too long, it can cause problems. The food can harden into solid masses. These are called bezoars. These masses may upset your stomach and make you vomit. They can also create a blockage in your stomach. This can be dangerous if it stops food from passing into your small intestine. In most cases, gastroparesis is a long-term (chronic) condition. What causes gastroparesis?Gastroparesis is caused when your vagus nerve is damaged or stops working. The vagus nerve controls how food moves through your digestive tract. When this nerve doesn’t work well, food moves too slowly or stops moving. The vagus nerve gets damaged if you have diabetes and your blood sugar or blood glucose levels stay high over a long period of time. Other causes of gastroparesis include:
Who is at risk for gastroparesis?You are more likely to have gastroparesis if you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes. What are the symptoms of gastroparesis?Each person’s symptoms may vary. Symptoms may include:
The symptoms of gastroparesis may look like other health problems. Always see your doctor to be sure. How is gastroparesis diagnosed?Your healthcare provider will give you a physical exam and ask about your past health. You may also have other tests, including:
How is gastroparesis treated?In most cases gastroparesis is a long-term or chronic health problem. It can’t be cured. But you can manage the disease with a care plan. If you have diabetes and gastroparesis, the main goal is to control your blood sugar levels. Any medicines that can cause gastroparesis will likely be stopped. Treatment will depend on your symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how severe the condition is. Your care plan may include:
What are possible complications of gastroparesis?Gastroparesis can cause other health problems because food moves too slowly through your stomach. These health problems include:
Living with gastroparesisGastroparesis can lead to weight loss and not getting enough nutrients (malnutrition). It's very important to follow your healthcare provider’s diet instructions. In most cases you will be given a special diet. This will have foods that are easier to digest and pass through your stomach. You may also be given medicines to take. Follow all instructions carefully. When should I call my healthcare provider?Call your healthcare provider right away if your symptoms get worse or if you have new symptoms. Problems such as a stomach blockage or high blood sugar need to be taken care of right away. Key points about gastroparesis
Next stepsTips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:
Medical Reviewer: Jen Lehrer MD Medical Reviewer: Ronald Karlin MD Medical Reviewer: Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN © 2000-2022 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions. Not what you're looking for? What are symptoms of the digestive system not working properly?Constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), nausea, food poisoning, gas, bloating, GERD and diarrhea are common examples. Many factors may upset your GI tract and its motility (ability to keep moving), including: Eating a diet low in fiber.
What causes problems with the digestive system?Such problems can be the result of bacteria in food, infection, stress, certain medications, or chronic medical conditions such as colitis, Crohn's disease, and IBS. But no matter the cause, anyone who has frequent digestive problems faces daily challenges and potential embarrassments.
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