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Gastroparesis

Summary

Gastroparesis is a digestive disorder in which the stomach empties food more slowly than normal, even though there is no blockage. This can lead to symptoms such as:

  • Feeling full quickly (early satiety)
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Bloating
  • Upper abdominal pain
  • Post-meal discomfort (postprandial fullness)

Gastroparesis is commonly caused by diabetes, certain medications, past surgeries, or may occur without a known cause (idiopathic).

Diagnosis and When to Seek Help

Doctors diagnose gastroparesis using a gastric emptying test (gastric scintigraphy), where a patient eats a small meal containing a special tracer. If more than 10% of the meal remains in the stomach after 4 hours, gastroparesis is confirmed.

Seek medical attention if your child experiences:

  • Frequent nausea or vomiting
  • Severe bloating or stomach pain
  • Unintended weight loss
  • Difficulty eating or keeping food down

Management

Treatment focuses on symptom relief and improving digestion. Common approaches include:

  • Medications
    • Prokinetic agents (help the stomach empty faster)
    • Anti-nausea medications (reduce nausea and vomiting)
    • Pain management, if needed
  • Dietary Adjustments
    • Eating smaller, more frequent meals
    • Choosing easily digestible foods (e.g., pureed or liquid meals)
    • Avoiding high-fat and high-fiber foods, which slow digestion
  • Nutritional Support
    • In severe cases, a feeding tube or intravenous nutrition may be needed to ensure proper nourishment.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Gastroparesis is a chronic condition, and symptoms may come and go. Regular follow-ups help monitor nutritional status and adjust treatment if needed. If diabetes is the cause, good blood sugar control is essential to prevent worsening symptoms.

With the right management, most children with gastroparesis can lead a healthy and active life. If your child is experiencing symptoms, consult a healthcare provider for a personalized treatment plan.

History and Exam

Key diagnostic factor

  • postprandial fullness
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • early satiety

Other diagnostic factors

  • epigastric pain
  • fullness
  • bloating
  • weight loss

Risk factor

  • diabetes mellitus
  • previous gastric and pancreatic surgery
  • female sex
  • achalasia

Diagnostic Investigations

1st investigations to order

  • FBC
  • serum glucose
  • serum creatinine
  • serum potassium

Investigations to consider

  • gastric emptying scintigraphy
  • upper gastrointestinal endoscopy
  • abdominal x-ray
  • contrast radiography

Emerging tests

  • electrogastrography

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    Other Related Conditions

    coeliac disease

    Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or Ulcerative Colitis)

    Eosinophilic Oesophagitis

    cow’s milk protein intolerance, food allergies

    irritable bowel syndrome (ibs)

    reflux & vomiting

    failure to thrive

    constipation or diarrhoea

    incontinence

    chronic abdominal pain

    gastroparesis

    liver disease

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      Social and emotional functioning refers to a child’s ability to understand, express, and manage their emotions, as well as to interact effectively with others. These skills are fundamental for building positive relationships, developing empathy, and coping with the everyday challenges of growing up.

      Children who experience difficulties in social and emotional functioning may struggle with recognizing their own feelings or those of others, regulating emotional responses, or responding appropriately in social situations. This can lead to challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, difficulty making friends, or misunderstandings with peers and adults.

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      Assessment of social and emotional functioning as part of a neuropsychological evaluation typically includes behavioural observations, standardized rating scales, and information gathered from parents, teachers, and sometimes the child. This comprehensive approach helps identify strengths and areas for support in emotional regulation, social skills, and adaptive behaviours.

      Understanding a child’s social-emotional profile allows for the development of tailored strategies to enhance emotional wellbeing, build resilience, and improve social communication. Early intervention and supportive environments can empower children to navigate their emotions more effectively, fostering confidence and meaningful connections. 

      At Offspring Health, we aim to provide transparent information about the costs involved in neurodevelopmental and educational assessments.

      Neuropsychological assessments typically involve multiple sessions that usually take between 8 and 16 hours in total, depending on the complexity and individual needs. Our hourly rate is $260, so the total cost typically ranges between $2,300 and $4,230.

      Fees generally cover:

      • Initial consultation and history gathering
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      • Liaison with schools or health professionals as needed
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      Please note that standard neuropsychological assessments are generally not covered by Medicare. However, some assessments and therapy services may be funded through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for eligible participants. We recommend discussing funding options with your NDIS planner or support coordinator prior to booking. Private health insurance may offer partial rebates depending on your level of coverage.

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