Gastroparesis, or paralysis of the stomach, is a digestive condition where there is a delay in the emptying of solids and liquids from the stomach. Gastroparesis is one of the complications from nerve damage, called autonomic neuropathy, that can occur in diabetes. It is the result of damage from long-term high blood glucose levels (BGLs) to the vagus nerve of the stomach.

What are the symptoms?

• early fullness at mealtimes (resulting in low appetite)
• reflux/heartburn
• bloating
• nausea
• vomiting (can be occasional and sudden or severe and prolonged)
• severe abdominal pain
• wide swings in blood glucose levels from hypoglycaemia after meals, later followed by hyperglycaemia
• weight loss
• malnutrition
• diarrhoea at night

Note – symptoms can improve with improved blood glucose management.

Gastroparesis is common in people with diabetes who: have type 1 diabetes or who have been managing their diabetes with insulin for 10 years or more, or who already have developed other complications or neuropathy (nerve damage).

For people living with diabetes, irregular emptying of stomach contents can make management of blood glucose difficult.

How do I manage my gastroparesis?
The treatment of gastroparesis is centred on symptom management as there is no ‘cure’ for the condition. It is important to check your BGLs frequently and your diabetes medication or insulin may need to be changed.

It is very important to get your individualised medical management plan from your diabetes team.

Nutrition management is essential for gastroparesis as it helps to maintain or improve your nutrient intake, reduces your symptoms and assists your blood glucose management.

See an Accredited Practising Dietitian for an individualised nutrition plan depending on your symptoms. Visit the Accredited Practising Dietitian website