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Gastroparesis

A chronic motility disorder characterized by delayed gastric emptying.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Gastroparesis?

Gastroparesis is a chronic motility disorder characterized by abnormally delayed gastric emptying in the absence of mechanical obstruction at the gastric outlet. The most common causes are diabetes mellitus (diabetic gastroparesis), postviral, postsurgical (vagotomy), and idiopathic forms.

Gastric smooth muscle dysfunction, loss of interstitial cells of Cajal, vagal neuropathy, and myenteric nervous system dysfunction play roles in the pathogenesis. Microvascular damage and oxidative stress are important mechanisms in long-standing diabetes.

Four-hour gastric scintigraphy is the diagnostic gold standard. Breath testing and the wireless motility capsule are alternative diagnostic methods. Treatment includes symptom control, nutritional support, and management of the underlying disease.

Symptoms

Nausea and chronic vomiting
Early satiety and loss of appetite
Postprandial bloating
Abdominal pain
Reflux and regurgitation
Weight loss and nutritional inadequacy
Erratic blood glucose (in diabetics)
Bezoar formation

Risk Factors

Long-standing diabetes (especially type 1)
Surgery on the stomach or vagus nerve
Viral infections (postviral gastroparesis)
Autonomic neuropathy
Drugs (opioids, anticholinergics, GLP-1 agonists)
Scleroderma and connective tissue diseases
Hypothyroidism
Parkinson's disease

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent nausea and vomiting
  • Postprandial early satiety
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Worsening of diabetes control
  • Dehydration and electrolyte disturbances
  • Symptoms refractory to reflux treatment

Treatment Methods

01
Small, frequent, low-fat and low-fiber meals
02
Liquid-predominant diet in severe cases
03
Metoclopramide (prokinetic)
04
Domperidone and erythromycin
05
Antiemetics (ondansetron)
06
Glycemic control in diabetic patients
07
Botulinum toxin injection of the pylorus
08
Gastric pacemaker and surgical options

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.