Health Encyclopedia

Gastroparesis

Definition

Gastroparesis is a condition that affects the ability of the stomach to empty its contents, but there is no blockage (obstruction).

Alternative Names

Gastroparesis diabeticorum; Delayed gastric emptying

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

The cause of gastroparesis is unknown, but it may be caused by a disruption of nerve signals to the intestine. The condition is a common complication of diabetes and can be a complication of some surgeries.

Risk factors for gastroparesis include:

Diabetes
Gastrectomy
Systemic sclerosis
Use of medication that inhibits certain nerve signals (anticholinergic medication)

Symptoms

Signs and tests

EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy)
Isotope study
Upper GI series

Treatment

People with diabetes should always control their blood sugar levels. Better control of blood sugar levels may improve symptoms of gastroparesis. Eating small meals and soft (well-cooked) foods may also help relieve some symptoms.

Medications include:

Cholinergic drugs, which act on acetylcholine nerve receptors
Metoclopramide, a medicine that helps empty the stomach
Serotonergic drugs, which act on serotonin receptors

Other treatments may include:

Botulinum toxin (Botox) injected into the outlet of the stomach (pylorus)
Surgical procedure that creates an opening between the stomach and small intestine to allow food to move through the digestive tract more easily (gastroenterostomy)

Expectations (prognosis)

Many treatments seem to provide only temporary benefit.

Complications

Persistent nausea and vomiting may cause:

Dehydration
Electrolyte imbalances
Malnutrition

People with diabetes may have serious complications from poor blood sugar control.

Calling your health care provider

Apply home treatment such as managing your diet. Call your health care provider if symptoms continue or if you have new symptoms.

Review Date:2/20/2008
Reviewed By:Christian Stone, MD, Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

The Agency for Health Care Administration (Agency) and this website do not claim the information on, or referred to by, this site is error free. This site may include links to websites of other government agencies or private groups. Our Agency and this website do not control such sites and are not responsible for their content. Reference to or links to any other group, product, service, or information does not mean our Agency or this website approves of that group, product, service, or information.

Additionally, while health information provided through this website may be a valuable resource for the public, it is not designed to offer medical advice. Talk with your doctor about medical care questions you may have.