Gastroparesis: Understanding the condition and treatment options 

August is Gastroparesis Awareness Month, dedicated to shedding light on this often-misunderstood digestive disorder. Let’s delve into what this condition is, its symptoms, causes, and available treatment options. We’ll also explore the potential connection with some popular medications. 

What is Gastroparesis? 

Gastroparesis is a chronic condition where the stomach muscles don’t function properly, leading to slower digestion. This delay can result in difficulty digesting food and controlling blood sugar levels. Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, bloating, and feeling full quickly. 

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Causes of Gastroparesis 

In many cases the cause of gastroparesis remains unknown, but there are a few common culprits: 

Diabetes: The most common cause of gastroparesis is diabetes mellitus, which can damage the vagus nerve. The vagal nerves carry signals between the brain, heart and digestive system, letting your body know to contract the stomach muscles essential for breaking down food. 

Post-Surgical: Some surgical procedures, particularly those involving the stomach or vagus nerve, can lead to gastroparesis. 

Medications and Other Conditions: Certain medications, neurological disorders, and autoimmune diseases can also contribute to gastroparesis. 

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Treatment Options 

Changes to the Diet 

Low-Fiber Foods:  Patients suffering from gastroparesis can benefit from consuming foods that are easy to digest including well-cooked fruits and veggies without the skins, lean proteins and refined grains.  

Small, Frequent Meals: Eating smaller portions more frequently throughout the day can ease the workload on the stomach, keeping symptoms at bay. 

Liquid Meals: Incorporating smoothies, soups, and other liquid-based foods that are easier to digest helps many patients. 

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Medications 

There are several medications available that can help manage the symptoms of gastroparesis including prokinetics which stimulate stomach contractions to improve gastric emptying. These include the prescriptions metoclopramide and domperidone. Anti-Nausea drugs including ondansetron can also help control nausea and vomiting associated with gastroparesis. 

Surgical Options 

While not always recommended by physicians, certain surgical procedures can help patients experiencing severe cases of gastroparesis. Gastric Electrical Stimulation (GES) involves surgically implanting a device that sends electrical impulses to the stomach muscles to improve motility. While pyloroplasty is a surgical procedure that widens the pylorus (the lower part of the stomach) to facilitate better gastric emptying. 

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Ozempic and Gastroparesis 

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity by lowering blood sugar levels and aiding weight loss. While generally effective, Ozempic has been associated with gastrointestinal side effects that can mimic or exacerbate symptoms of gastroparesis in some patients. These side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite, which are crucial symptoms to monitor, especially for people with pre-existing digestive conditions. 

With proper management through dietary adjustments, medications, and in some cases, surgical interventions, individuals with gastroparesis can improve their quality of life and manage symptoms effectively. As we recognize Gastroparesis Awareness Month this August, let’s continue to educate ourselves and others. It’s crucial to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals living with this condition. By understanding its symptoms, causes, and available treatments, we can all offer better support and empathy to those affected by gastroparesis. 

For more on common digestive conditions, feel free to contact Gastroenterology of Greater Orlando. They are a cutting-edge clinical gastroenterology practice that sets the standard in digestive health care. Contact them to schedule a consultation or learn more about how they can help you maintain digestive wellness. 

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(Source:  Gastroenterology of Greater Orlando)

Posted by Richard Webster, Ace News Today
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