### What is Gastroparesis? Gastroparesis is a condition where food stays in your stomach longer than it should. This condition is also known as delayed gastric emptying. It can cause various symptoms and complications, especially in people with diabetes. ### Symptoms of Gastroparesis - Nausea and vomiting - Feeling full quickly when eating - Bloating - Abdominal pain - Heartburn or GERD - Changes in blood sugar levels ### Diagnosis To diagnose gastroparesis, doctors will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may also perform a physical exam and order tests such as: - Gastric emptying study - Upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy - Ultrasound - Blood tests ### Treatment Options #### Dietary Changes - Eat smaller, more frequent meals - Opt for liquid and low-residue foods - Avoid high-fat and high-fiber foods - Stay upright for 2 hours after eating - Drink plenty of fluids #### Medications - Prokinetics to help stomach muscles move food - Antiemetics to control nausea and vomiting #### Other Treatments - Blood sugar control for diabetic patients - Feeding tubes for severe cases - Botulinum toxin injections - Electrical stimulation - Per-oral pyloromyotomy - Gastric bypass surgery for obese diabetic patients - Intravenous or parenteral nutrition for severe cases ### Conclusion Gastroparesis is not very common but can significantly impact quality of life. Managing the condition often involves a combination of dietary changes, medications, and other treatments, especially for diabetic patients.