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Gastroparesis
LONG-TERM (CHRONIC) CONDITION
Gastroparesis is a long-term condition where the stomach cannot empty itself properly
What is gastroparesis?
Gastroparesis is thought to be caused by a problem with the nerves and muscles involved in the emptying of the stomach.
Gastroparesis can lead to symptoms such as:
- Feeling full quickly when eating
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Need to know
Some of the common symptoms of gastroparesis include:
- feeling full all the time
- nausea
- bloating
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- stomach pain
- heartburn
Your GP will discuss your symptoms with you to make a diagnosis. They may refer you to our neurogastroenterology diagnostic unit at a later date, where we may be able to carry out a number of tests to get to the root of the problem:
- A barium swallow test, which involves swallowing a special liquid that will show up in an X-ray to show your digestive system in action.
- A wireless capsule test, where we ask you to swallow a small electronic device that tells us how fast food can pass through your digestive tract.
- Endoscopy, which involves inserting a thin, flexible telescope through your mouth to look into your throat and stomach.
Depending on your symptoms and any test results, your GP or consultant will discuss your treatment options with you. These may range from dietary advice to prescribed drugs to help increase your stomach movements.
Rachael's gastroparsis treatment
After years of enduring stomach pains, frequent vomiting, and debilitating symptoms such as hearing loss, Rachael was also diagnosed with gastroparesis, most likely caused by Ehlers Danlos Syndrome.
Rachael’s family found an unexpected glimmer of hope while they were watching TV together. In BBC2’s The Diagnosis Detectives, they saw that gastroenterologist Dr Ray Shidrawi had successfully treated a woman who had also been suffering with similar symptoms including vomiting.
Rachael travelled to The Wellington Hospital for treatment at the London Gastroparesis Service, where treatment has helped her condition, increasing energy levels and allowing her to eat and drink without being ill.
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.