Regularity. Your weekly lunch date. Your morning coffee. Your daily…well, you know. We all depend on regularity. We take it for granted! But when things get funky, it can throw everything off.
So what’s causing the irregularity?
Gastroparesis, also known as Digestive Tract Paralysis (DTP), is a gastrointestinal disorder in which the muscles of the stomach function abnormally, interfering with the normal digestion process.
his disorder can cause
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Changes in blood sugar
- Loss of appetite
- Malnutrition
- Abdominal pain and bloating
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
Although there’s no definitive cause of gastroparesis, the onset of symptoms is most often associated with damage to the vagus nerve, which controls the stomach muscles. The vagus nerve can be impaired by surgery, illness, or injury. Sometimes it may be a result of long-standing or uncontrolled diabetes. In some cases no obvious cause is apparent.
Gastroparesis is generally a chronic condition with no definitive cure. However, gastroparesis symptoms can be managed with proper treatment.
Treatment options for gastroparesis include diet management, prescription medication, and—in extreme cases—surgery. If you suspect you’re suffering from a paralyzed or slow-moving digestive tract, consult with a gastroenterologist and get diagnosed today. Get back on track today with a GI Alliance specialist.
