Motility disorders refer to conditions that affect the normal movement of food and fluids through the digestive tract. Gastroparesis is one such disorder characterized by delayed emptying of the stomach contents into the small intestine. At SHIFAA PAN African Hospitals, our Gastroenterology Department specializes in diagnosing and managing motility disorders like gastroparesis to improve patients’ quality of life.

Symptoms:

Gastroparesis symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, bloating, feeling full after eating small amounts of food, heartburn, and fluctuations in blood sugar levels (especially in individuals with diabetes). These symptoms can significantly impact daily life and nutritional status.

Diagnosis:

Diagnosing gastroparesis involves a thorough clinical evaluation, including medical history review and physical examination. Diagnostic tests may include gastric emptying studies using radioactive tracers or special foods to monitor the rate at which the stomach empties, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (EGD) to rule out other conditions, and imaging studies such as CT scans or MRIs.

Treatment:

Treatment for gastroparesis aims to alleviate symptoms, improve gastric emptying, and address underlying causes. Therapeutic interventions may include dietary modifications such as consuming smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding high-fat and high-fiber foods, medications to stimulate stomach emptying (prokinetic agents) or manage symptoms (antiemetics, acid-suppressing drugs), and in severe cases, surgical interventions or implanted devices to regulate gastric motility. Gastroparesis can lead to complications such as malnutrition, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and exacerbation of underlying conditions such as diabetes. Monitoring for complications and regular follow-up evaluations are essential components of long-term management to adjust treatment plans as needed.

Prevention:

Preventive measures for gastroparesis may include managing underlying conditions such as diabetes, avoiding medications that can slow gastric motility (if possible), and adopting a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition and regular physical activity.

Multidisciplinary Care:

Managing gastroparesis often requires a multidisciplinary approach involving gastroenterologists, dietitians, endocrinologists (for diabetic gastroparesis), and other healthcare professionals. Collaborative care focuses on individualized treatment plans, dietary counseling, symptom management, and patient education to optimize outcomes and quality of life.

 

What causes gastroparesis?

Gastroparesis can result from various factors, including diabetes, surgery on the stomach or vagus nerve, neurological disorders, autoimmune conditions, medications that affect stomach motility, and viral infections.

 

What are the symptoms of gastroparesis?

Symptoms of gastroparesis may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, bloating, feeling full after eating small amounts of food, heartburn, and fluctuations in blood sugar levels.

 

How is gastroparesis diagnosed?

Diagnosing gastroparesis involves a thorough clinical evaluation, including medical history review and physical examination. Diagnostic tests may include gastric emptying studies, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and imaging studies.

 

What are the treatment options for gastroparesis?

Treatment for gastroparesis may include dietary modifications, medications to stimulate stomach emptying or manage symptoms, surgical interventions, or implanted devices. Individualized treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s specific needs and underlying causes.