Gastroparesis
What is Gastroparesis?
Gastroparesis is a condition that affects the stomach and how it moves food into the small intestine. When someone has gastroparesis, their stomach muscles don't work properly, causing food to stay in the stomach for longer than it should. This can lead to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, bloating, and feeling full quickly. Gastroparesis can make it difficult for the body to get the nutrients it needs from food.
Diagnosing Gastroparesis
Diagnosing gastroparesis involves a few different steps. First, a doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may also perform a physical exam to check for any signs of the condition. To confirm the diagnosis, your doctor may order tests such as a gastric emptying study, where you eat a meal with a small amount of radioactive material and then have scans taken to see how quickly your stomach empties. Other tests, like an upper endoscopy or blood tests, may also be done to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms.
Treating Gastroparesis
While there is no cure for gastroparesis, there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms. Your doctor may recommend changes to your diet, such as eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding foods that are high in fat and fiber. Medications can also be prescribed to help stimulate stomach contractions and improve digestion. In some cases, a feeding tube may be necessary to ensure proper nutrition. It's important to work closely with your healthcare team to find the best treatment plan for you.
Preventing Gastroparesis
While gastroparesis can sometimes be caused by underlying conditions like diabetes or nerve damage, there are steps you can take to help prevent it. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help keep your digestive system functioning properly. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also reduce the risk of developing gastroparesis. If you have any concerns about your digestive health, it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor for personalized advice and guidance.
What is Gastroparesis?
Gastroparesis is a condition that affects the stomach and how it moves food into the small intestine. When someone has gastroparesis, their stomach muscles don't work properly, causing food to stay in the stomach for longer than it should. This can lead to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, bloating, and feeling full quickly. Gastroparesis can make it difficult for the body to get the nutrients it needs from food.
Diagnosing Gastroparesis
Diagnosing gastroparesis involves a few different steps. First, a doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may also perform a physical exam to check for any signs of the condition. To confirm the diagnosis, your doctor may order tests such as a gastric emptying study, where you eat a meal with a small amount of radioactive material and then have scans taken to see how quickly your stomach empties. Other tests, like an upper endoscopy or blood tests, may also be done to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms.
Treating Gastroparesis
While there is no cure for gastroparesis, there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms. Your doctor may recommend changes to your diet, such as eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding foods that are high in fat and fiber. Medications can also be prescribed to help stimulate stomach contractions and improve digestion. In some cases, a feeding tube may be necessary to ensure proper nutrition. It's important to work closely with your healthcare team to find the best treatment plan for you.
Preventing Gastroparesis
While gastroparesis can sometimes be caused by underlying conditions like diabetes or nerve damage, there are steps you can take to help prevent it. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help keep your digestive system functioning properly. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also reduce the risk of developing gastroparesis. If you have any concerns about your digestive health, it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor for personalized advice and guidance.
Symptom list:
Gastroparesis
Financial support
Not all of us are able to afford the treatment we need. Search your insurance coverage, or check out what charities may be able to offer you for your condition.
p.s. Just because you have insurance, that doesn't mean that charities or other organizations are not able to support you too.
Emotional support
Whether it's a free counseling session or to find someone with a similar diagnosis, these Germie approved charities might be able to help. Click to explore their offerings!
