Overview
Gastroparesis is a condition in which the stomach empties its contents slowly, causing nausea, vomiting, and digestive problems. It is often linked to diabetes or nerve damage.
Symptoms
Nausea and vomiting Bloating and abdominal pain Early feeling of fullness when eating Weight loss or malnutrition
Causes
Damage to the vagus nerve (often from diabetes) Medications that slow gastric emptying Surgery affecting stomach nerves Idiopathic (unknown) causes
Diagnosis
Gastric emptying studies Endoscopy to rule out obstruction Blood tests and symptom review
Treatment
Dietary changes: small, frequent meals, low-fat and low-fiber Medications to stimulate stomach emptying Managing underlying conditions like diabetes Surgery or gastric electrical stimulation in severe cases
Complications
Malnutrition and dehydration Blood sugar fluctuations in diabetics Bezoar formation (food obstruction)
Prevention
Control underlying conditions like diabetes Follow dietary recommendations Avoid medications that slow gastric emptying if possible