DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Gastroenterologic Disease

Gastroparesis

MODERATE

A condition affecting stomach muscles and preventing proper stomach emptying. Caused by damage to the vagus nerve or stomach muscles. Associated with diabetes, surgery, and certain medications. No structural blockage.

Global Affected

5.0M

Countries

15

Symptoms

Nausea
Vomiting (undigested food)
Abdominal bloating
Abdominal pain
Feeling full quickly
Acid reflux
Changes in blood sugar
Lack of appetite
Weight loss

Treatment Options

Dietary modifications (low fat, low fiber)
Small frequent meals
Prokinetic medications
Antiemetics
Botulinum toxin injection
Gastric electrical stimulation
Feeding tube (jejunostomy)
IV nutrition (TPN)
Pyloroplasty
Gastric bypass surgery

Risk Factors

1Diabetes (most common cause)
2Abdominal or esophageal surgery
3Infection
4Certain medications (narcotics, anticholinergics)
5Scleroderma
6Nervous system diseases
7Hypothyroidism
8Viral illness

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Gastric emptying study (scintigraphy)
  • 2Upper endoscopy (rule out obstruction)
  • 3Gastric emptying breath test
  • 4Wireless motility capsule
  • 5SmartPill
  • 6Upper GI series
  • 7Electrogastrography

Prognosis

Chronic condition with no cure. Symptoms fluctuate. Diabetes management crucial. Nutritional deficiencies common. Quality of life significantly affected. Severe cases require enteral feeding. Mortality mainly from underlying disease.

Prevention

  • Good diabetes control
  • Avoid medications that slow gastric emptying
  • Regular exercise
  • Smaller, more frequent meals
  • Avoid high-fat and high-fiber foods
  • Stay upright after eating

Research Status

Prokinetic agents (metoclopramide, erythromycin) mainstays. Dietary modifications essential. Gastric electrical stimulation for refractory cases. Botulinum toxin injection investigated. Newer prokinetics in development.

Affected Countries

AustraliaBrazilCanadaGermanyEESpainFranceUnited KingdomCroatiaItalyJapanMexicoPeruRussiaUnited States

Sources

  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gastroparesis
  • https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/gastroparesis
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions
  • https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.