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What is it I hear you cry? its actually more common than you think and you may suffer from it and most probably know someone who suffers from it. Digestive issues are one of the main conditions I see in my clinic and they all have their subtle differences and causes.
Explained simply this is a condition brought on when the stomach empties too slowly after a meal.
Symptoms include:
Nausea and vomiting
Stomach pain and discomfort
Dry heaving
Feeling full easily
Inability to finish a meal
Symptoms can vary and can even become life-threatening. If this sounds like you speak to your doctor today.
What can cause gastroparesis?
The cause of this condition is not fully understood but in some cases it can follow some surgeries especially those to the oesophagus and abdomen as well as those that damage the vagus nerve.
It can also occur with other conditions have affect the nervous system or connective tissue including MS, Parkinson’s Disease and more.
It is also a complication of long standing diabetes and accounts for around 25% of those that suffer with it
Gastroparesis can lead to severe dehydration, issues with blood sugar control, undigested food causing nausea, vomiting or obstructions.
What medications impact gastroparesis?
Many medications can impact gastric emptying and increase the severity of gastroparesis.
These include
Opiate painkillers like codeine and morphine.
Anti spasmodic medications such as those used in IBS
Calcium Channel blockers for heart conditions
Some antidepressants
Some Diabetes medications
In some people PPIs can make gastroparesis worse as they too can delay gastric emptying.
How can gastroparesis be better managed?
It is important to manage your diet to maintain a good nutrient status, working with someone who understands the condition is key.
It can be helpful to eat small, frequent meals that as low in fat and fibre as large meals, high fat and fibre can delay stomach emptying.
Manage stress – the digestive system is managed by our nervous system and when we are stressed it prioritises saving us from danger over supporting digestion. Eating in a calm relaxed environment is key.
Taking time to chew your food properly also helps the stomach to handle food and gastric emptying more effectively
Maintain a good level of hydration
If you are diabetic managing your blood sugar is key
Avoid or reduce alcohol and smoking cigarettes as these can also slow gastric emptying
Ensure you get regular exercise if you are able to do so.
If you are interested to receive individual support with this condition please email me with the word Gastroparesis and I will add you to my email list as I will shortly be launching my digestive with confidence course and offering a free 30 minute zoom session for the first 10 people to sign up
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