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.

Gastroparesis

Digestive health

Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is a long-term (chronic) condition where the stomach cannot empty itself properly.

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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

Symptoms of gastroparesis

Some of the common symptoms of gastroparesis include:

feeling full all the time
nausea
bloating
loss of appetite
weight loss
stomach pain
heartburn

Diagnosis

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.

Potential gastroparesis treatment options

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.