Diabetic Gastroparesis

Overview

Diabetic Gastroparesis is a disorder affecting people with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes in which there is delayed gastric emptying. In a diabetic patient, high blood glucose causes chemical changes in nerves and damages the blood vessels that bring them much-needed oxygen and nutrients. If the vagus nerve is damaged, the muscles of the stomach don't work normally, and the movement of food slows or even grinds to a halt.

Signs and Symptoms

Heartburn, Nausea, Vomiting of undigested food, Early feeling of fullness when eating, Weight loss, Abdominal bloating, Erratic blood glucose levels, Lack of appetite, Gastroesophageal reflux, Spasms of the stomach wall

Common Causes

Damage to the vagus nerve

Risk Factors

Type 1 and 2 Diabetes mellitus

Investigation Techniques

Full blood count, Barium X-ray, Upper GI series, Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, Abdominal ultrasound

Treatment and Prevention

Control blood glucose level: check blood glucose frequently and administer insulin whenever necessary, Medication: metoclopramide, antibiotic, antiemetic, Jejunostomy tube feeding, Changing eating habits