While gastroparesis is relatively uncommon, it can have a significant impact on a person's daily life, nutrition, and overall wellbeing. Raising awareness helps people recognise symptoms early and seek appropriate medical advice.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of gastroparesis can vary from person to person and may include:
- Feeling full very quickly when eating.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Bloating or abdominal discomfort.
- Upper abdominal pain.
- Heartburn or acid reflux.
- Loss of appetite.
- Unintentional weight loss.
- Fluctuating blood glucose levels, particularly in people with diabetes.
Many of these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it is important to seek medical assessment if symptoms are persistent or worsening.
What causes gastroparesis?
Gastroparesis occurs when the nerves or muscles that control stomach emptying are damaged or do not function properly. Causes include:
- Diabetes (particularly when blood glucose levels have been difficult to control).
- Previous surgery involving the stomach or oesophagus.
- Certain medications that slow stomach emptying.
- Some neurological conditions.
- Viral infections.
- In many people, no specific cause is identified (known as idiopathic gastroparesis).
How is it diagnosed?
Your GP will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and may carry out an examination. Depending on your symptoms, you may be referred for further investigations, such as:
- Blood tests.
- Endoscopy.
- Imaging tests.
- Gastric emptying studies to assess how quickly food leaves the stomach.
How is gastroparesis treated?
Treatment aims to manage symptoms and improve nutrition. Depending on the cause and severity, this may include:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals.
- Choosing foods that are easier to digest.
- Drinking enough fluids.
- Managing blood glucose levels carefully if you have diabetes.
- Medicines to improve stomach emptying or reduce nausea.
- Referral to a dietitian or gastroenterology specialist where appropriate.
In more severe cases, specialist treatments or nutritional support may be required.
When should you contact your GP?
Please arrange an appointment if you experience:
- Ongoing nausea or vomiting.
- Difficulty eating enough food.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Persistent abdominal pain or bloating.
- Symptoms that are affecting your daily life.
- Worsening digestive symptoms, particularly if you have diabetes.
Seek urgent medical attention if you are unable to keep fluids down, have severe abdominal pain, vomit blood, or develop signs of dehydration.
Looking after your digestive health
Simple lifestyle measures can help support digestive health:
- Eat regular, balanced meals.
- Chew food thoroughly.
- Stay well hydrated.
- Keep physically active where possible.
- Follow any dietary advice provided by your healthcare professional.
- If you have diabetes, aim to keep your blood glucose levels within your target range.
We're here to help
If you are concerned about persistent digestive symptoms or think you may have gastroparesis, please contact the practice to arrange an appointment. Early assessment can help identify the cause of your symptoms and ensure you receive the most appropriate care and support