Gastroparesis
Gastroparesis is a condition in which the normal movement of the stomach becomes slow because of problems affecting the nerves or muscles that control stomach movement.
Normally, muscular contractions called peristaltic movements help move food from the stomach into the small intestine. In gastroparesis, these movements become slower or less effective, so food can remain in the stomach for a longer period of time.
This can affect digestion and may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, abdominal discomfort and feeling full for a long time after eating.
What Is Gastroparesis?
Gastroparesis means delayed or impaired emptying of food from the stomach.
The vagus nerve plays an important role in controlling stomach movements. It helps coordinate the contractions that move food from the stomach into the small intestine.
When the vagus nerve or the muscles involved in stomach movement are damaged or affected, the stomach may not empty normally.
Causes of Gastroparesis
Gastroparesis can occur due to damage or dysfunction of the vagus nerve, which normally helps control the movement of food through the stomach.
Diabetes
Diabetes is an important cause of chronic gastroparesis. Persistently high blood glucose levels can damage the nerves, including the vagus nerve, and affect normal stomach movement.
Other Causes
Other possible causes and contributing factors mentioned in the doctor’s content include:
- A history of abdominal surgery or injury involving the vagus nerve
- Viral infections such as parvovirus, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, varicella virus and herpes virus
- Certain medicines, including opioids, tricyclic antidepressants, calcium channel blockers, antipsychotics, some diabetes medicines and progesterone
- Scleroderma and other connective tissue disorders
- Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease
- Hypothyroidism
The underlying cause can vary from person to person, so appropriate medical evaluation is important when persistent symptoms are present.
Symptoms of Gastroparesis
Gastroparesis can cause digestive symptoms that may vary in severity.
Common symptoms mentioned in the doctor’s content include:
- Burning sensation in the chest
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Nausea
- Vomiting of undigested food
- Abdominal bloating
- Loss of appetite
- A persistent feeling of fullness
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Weight loss due to reduced appetite
- Constipation
- An unsatisfactory feeling after passing stool
People with diabetes may also experience gastroparesis as a complication associated with their condition.
Vomiting of Undigested Food
One characteristic symptom described in the doctor’s content is vomiting food that has not been properly digested. This can occur when food remains in the stomach for an extended period.
Feeling Full After Eating
A person with gastroparesis may feel full for a long time or may experience fullness after eating only a small amount of food.
Complications of Gastroparesis
When food remains in the stomach for a prolonged period, gastroparesis may lead to complications.
Possible complications mentioned in the doctor’s content include:
Fermentation of Food
Food remaining in the stomach for an extended period may undergo fermentation and can create an environment favorable for bacterial growth.
Bezoars
Stomach contents can sometimes become hardened into masses called bezoars. These may cause blockage between the stomach and intestines.
Weight Loss
Persistent nausea, vomiting and reduced appetite may contribute to weight loss.
Nutritional Deficiency
Difficulty eating or absorbing adequate nutrition can lead to nutritional problems.
Dehydration
Repeated vomiting and inadequate fluid intake may contribute to dehydration.
Diagnosis of Gastroparesis
Several investigations may be used to evaluate symptoms and assess stomach emptying.
Blood Tests
Blood tests may help evaluate factors such as:
- Infection
- Diabetes
- Malnutrition
- Electrolyte imbalance
Barium X-Ray
In a barium examination, the patient swallows a white liquid called barium. X-rays are then taken as the barium passes through the digestive tract.
The barium helps outline the lining of the oesophagus, stomach and intestines.
Radioisotope Gastric Emptying Scan
A radioisotope gastric emptying scan, also known as gastric scintigraphy, can be used to assess how quickly food leaves the stomach.
Gastromanometry
Gastromanometry may be used to assess the activity and contractions of the stomach muscles.
Smart Pill
A small electronic device, sometimes referred to as a smart pill, can be swallowed to collect information about how quickly it travels through the digestive tract.
The appropriate investigation depends on the patient’s symptoms and clinical assessment.
Gastroparesis Management
The following management measures are included in Dr. Ruchi’s original content:
Eat Smaller Meals
Instead of eating three large meals, take six smaller meals throughout the day.
Drink Plenty of Fluids
Adequate fluid intake is important, particularly when nausea or vomiting is present.
Avoid High-Fat Foods
Avoid foods that are high in fat if they worsen digestive symptoms.
Maintain Good Blood Glucose Control
People with diabetes should work with their healthcare professional to maintain appropriate blood glucose control.
Avoid Smoking
Avoid smoking as part of a healthier lifestyle.
Avoid Alcohol
Avoid alcohol if it aggravates digestive symptoms or as advised by your healthcare professional.
Homeopathic Management of Gastroparesis
At 247 Homeopathy, Zirakpur, Dr. Ruchi follows an individualized homeopathic approach based on the patient’s symptoms and overall presentation.
The following medicines are included in Dr. Ruchi’s original homeopathic management section for gastroparesis.
1. Opium
Opium is traditionally considered in homeopathic practice when there is marked weakness or incoordination of the stomach muscles.
The symptom picture described includes:
- Reduced sensation or insensibility
- Painful inflammation of the stomach and epigastric region
- Nausea and vomiting
- Vomiting of greenish material
- Obstinate constipation
- A sensation of fullness or heaviness in the abdomen
- Paralytic weakness of the bowel after abdominal surgery
2. Lycopodium
Lycopodium is traditionally considered when there is weak digestion associated with bloating and belching.
The symptom picture described by Dr. Ruchi includes:
- Bloating
- Belching
- Pressure in the stomach
- Difficulty breathing associated with stomach pressure
- Feeling full after eating only a small amount
- Digestive complaints associated with diabetes
- Dyspepsia associated with farinaceous or fermentable foods
- Vomiting of dark greenish matter
3. Nux Vomica
Nux Vomica is traditionally considered for various digestive complaints.
The symptom picture described includes:
- Sensitivity in the region of the stomach
- Symptoms aggravated by pressure
- Cramps and nausea, particularly in the morning
- Sour or bitter belching
- Nausea and vomiting with retching
- Vomiting of greenish material or undigested food
- An unsatisfactory feeling after passing stool
- Dark stool with an offensive smell
4. Pulsatilla
Pulsatilla is traditionally considered when vomiting occurs after eating or drinking.
The symptom picture described includes:
- Vomiting after meals or drinks
- Sour belching after food
- Vomiting of undigested food
- Yellowish or greenish vomit
- Heartburn
- Bad taste in the mouth
- Sour-tasting belching
- Vomiting after attempting to drink water
Frequently Asked Questions About Gastroparesis
Can gastroparesis cause acid reflux?
Yes. Delayed stomach emptying can contribute to reflux symptoms because food and stomach contents remain in the stomach for longer. Persistent or worsening reflux should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Can gastroparesis cause low blood sugar?
It can make blood glucose levels harder to predict, particularly in people with diabetes, because delayed stomach emptying can change when food is absorbed. People with diabetes and suspected gastroparesis should discuss glucose management with their healthcare team.
Can gastroparesis cause constipation?
Yes. Constipation can occur in people with gastroparesis. However, persistent constipation may have several possible causes and should be evaluated if it is severe or ongoing.
Does gastroparesis cause stomach pain after eating?
Yes. Some people with gastroparesis experience abdominal pain or discomfort after eating. The severity and timing can vary, and persistent or severe abdominal pain should be medically assessed.
Can gastroparesis make you feel full after eating only a small amount?
Yes. Delayed stomach emptying can cause early or prolonged fullness, so a person may feel full sooner than expected or remain full for a long time after a meal.
Can gastroparesis get worse over time?
Gastroparesis can vary from person to person, and symptoms may improve, remain stable or worsen depending on the underlying cause and other factors. Increasing vomiting, inability to eat or drink, dehydration or significant nutritional problems require medical attention.
Consultation for Gastroparesis at 247 Homeopathy
If you are experiencing persistent nausea, vomiting of undigested food, abdominal bloating, prolonged fullness, reflux, abdominal discomfort, constipation or unexplained weight loss, you can consult Dr. Ruchi at 247 Homeopathy in Zirakpur, Punjab.
247 Homeopathy provides consultations for patients in Zirakpur and nearby areas, as well as online consultations for patients across India and worldwide.
Dr. Ruchi can review your symptoms and individual health history and discuss an individualized homeopathic approach where appropriate.
Consult Dr. Ruchi at 247 Homeopathy, Zirakpur, or enquire about an online consultation from anywhere in the world.
