Fact 4: Diagnosing the Condition
Diagnosing gastroparesis isn’t as straightforward as one might assume. The symptoms, while indicative, are often shared with other digestive disorders, leading to potential misdiagnoses. Hence, a more systematic approach is necessary to pinpoint the condition accurately.
The first step often involves a detailed discussion between the patient and the doctor. Here, the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and potential triggers are meticulously evaluated. This initial assessment can guide the subsequent diagnostic processes.
A commonly employed diagnostic tool is the gastric emptying scan. Here, the patient consumes a light meal, typically containing a small amount of radioactive material. Post-meal, scans track the progress of this meal, determining how quickly the stomach empties. A delay beyond the standard duration points towards gastroparesis.
Endoscopy offers another diagnostic avenue. A flexible tube with a camera, when inserted through the mouth and into the stomach, provides a direct view of the stomach’s interior. This can rule out blockages or other physical impediments causing the symptoms.(4)
