Digestive Tract Paralysis Awareness Month

Gastroparesis is not common; however, many symptoms are similar to other digestive illnesses, and people might not recognize the difference.

This blog will let you know what it is, its symptoms, and more!

What is digestive tract paralysis (gastroparesis)?

Digestive tract paralysis makes it difficult for the stomach to clean itself naturally. Due to paralysis in the stomach, the muscles in this area do not have the strength nor coordination to function in a common way. Therefore, stomach digestion is slowed down or even stopped completely. People with diabetes are more prone to developing this condition. According to statistics, women are more prone to gastroparesis than men.

What causes gastroparesis?

Injuries to the nerves can result in gastroparesis, significantly if the vagus nerve is damaged. This nerve can cause your stomach muscles to contract (tighten) to aid in the flow of food through the system.

When the muscles contract, it makes it difficult for your stomach and bowel muscles to function normally, which delays the passage of food into your intestines from the stomach.

Doctors typically cannot determine the root cause of gastroparesis even with medical tests. Idiopathic gastroparesis is a form of gastroparesis that has no recognized reason.

Who is more prone to developing digestive tract paralysis?

People with diabetes are prone to develop digestive tract paralysis. Women are more prone to contact gastroparesis, but women respond better to the treatment than men

Also, people who have suffered or are suffering from other conditions or have had surgery are more likely to develop gastroparesis. Including:

What are some gastroparesis symptoms?

The symptoms might be similar to other gastrointestinal and stomach conditions. The most common signs of digestive tract paralysis are:

Is there a cure for gastroparesis?

Although gastroparesis is incurable, a change in the person’s diet along with medical intervention can aid in controlling the illness.

Some diet modifications could include; eating smaller but more frequent meals instead of three large ones throughout the day. Chewing food thoroughly before swallowing will help to retain less food in the stomach and make it simpler to digest. Also, changing to more soft and watery foods can aid in keeping the flow.

How can Signature Health Services help you?

We want to raise awareness of digestive tract paralysis. A good and balanced diet combined with exercise will improve your lifestyle and avoid health complications in general.

At Signature Health Services, we have the best-skilled nurses in Texas to provide comfort, support, consistency, and a quicker journey towards recovery.

Learn more about our gastrointestinal specialties here.