What is gastroparesis, symptoms of this chronic digestive disorder, and tips to manage it

Post-surgical complications: Surgery on the stomach or surrounding organs may inadvertently damage the vagus nerve or alter stomach function.

Idiopathic causes: In some cases, the cause of gastroparesis is unknown, and the condition arises without a clear underlying factor.

How gastroparesis contributes to symptoms like constant bloating

Delayed gastric emptying: Gastroparesis primarily leads to delayed gastric emptying, which means that the stomach does not process food and liquids as efficiently as it should. This delay causes food and digestive juices to remain in the stomach for extended periods. As a result, the stomach accumulates gas and partially digested food, which contributes to symptoms like bloating.

Bloating: Bloating is a common symptom in people diagnosed with gastroparesis. The prolonged presence of food in the stomach can cause gas produced during digestion to become trapped. This trapped gas, combined with undigested food, leads to abdominal distension and discomfort. The stretching of the stomach from the buildup of gas and food creates a sensation of fullness and pressure, which can be quite distressing.

Nausea and vomiting: The symptoms of nausea and vomiting frequently accompany gastroparesis. The stomach's inability to efficiently move food along the digestive tract can cause discomfort and a feeling of excessive fullness. These symptoms not only exacerbate bloating but also lead to additional complications, such as dehydration and malnutrition if vomiting is frequent.

Dietary challenges: Diet plays a significant role in managing gastroparesis. Certain foods may lead to symptoms like bloating and discomfort. Foods that are high in fat and fibre can be particularly challenging, as they take longer to digest and can worsen delayed gastric emptying. Additionally, large meals can overwhelm the stomach's reduced ability to process food efficiently.

Also see: Keep your gut healthy with these expert-recommended tips to manage, and prevent stomach infections

Managing gastroparesis

Effective management of gastroparesis involves a multifaceted approach aimed at alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life. Key strategies include:

Dietary modifications:

Low-fat, low-fibre diet: Consuming foods that are easier to digest helps reduce bloating and discomfort.

Small, frequent meals: Eating smaller meals more frequently can prevent overwhelming the stomach and improve digestion.

Blended foods: In some cases, liquid foods may be easier to tolerate and digest.

Other interventions

In severe cases where dietary changes and medications are insufficient, additional interventions might be necessary:

Feeding tubes: For people who cannot maintain adequate nutrition orally, feeding tubes may be used to ensure proper nutrient intake.

Surgical options: In rare cases, surgical procedures may be considered to address underlying issues or provide symptom relief.