Gastroparesis
What is Gastroparesis?
Gastroparesis is a condition related to the nerves of the digestive system. Diabetes can damage the nerves so that the stomach empties irregularly, perhaps too fast or more commonly, too slow. The vagus nerve controls the movement of food through the digestive tract, and high blood sugars over time can affect its ability to function normally.
Symptoms may be mild, or severe. They include: heartburn, nausea, vomiting undigested food, lack of appetite, gastroesophageal reflux, early feeling of fullness, weight loss. This alteration of stomach emptying can make blood glucose levels erratic.
There are specific medical tests that are conducted to diagnose gastroparesis. Treatment may include a special diet of foods that are more easily digested so the stomach empties properly. Medications can be effective. In severe cases, a new device called a Gastric Neurostimulator, or a pacemaker, can be implanted in the abdominal wall to normalize digestive function.
