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
Book an Appointment
Other Related Conditions
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