The exact cause of gastroparesis is unknown. It may be caused by a disruption of nerve signals to the stomach. The condition is a common complication of diabetes. It can also follow some surgeries.
Risk factors for gastroparesis include:
Diabetes
Gastrectomy (surgery to remove part of the stomach)
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 foods may also help relieve some symptoms.
Medicatines that may help include:
Cholinergic drugs, which act on acetylcholine nerve receptors
Erythromycin
Metoclopramide, a medicine that helps empty the stomach
Serotonin antagonist 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.
People with diabetes may have serious complications from poor blood sugar control.
Calling your health care provider
Changes in your diet may help control symptoms. Call your health care provider if symptoms continue or if you have new symptoms.
References
Koch KL. Gastric neuromuscular function and neuromuscular disorders. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2010:chap 48.
Review Date:
10/8/2012
Reviewed By:
George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, California. Also reviewed by A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc., Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, David R. Eltz, and Stephanie Slon.
