Fact 6: Treatment Options
When it comes to gastroparesis, there’s no universal solution. The strategies for its management vary based on its intensity and root cause. For some, a mere tweak in their diet can instigate noticeable improvements. Others, however, might require more rigorous interventions, including medications or even surgeries.
The stomach, in gastroparesis, often struggles with its primary function: digestion. To assist it, doctors frequently advocate for smaller, more regular meals. This lessens the strain, allowing the stomach to process food more effectively. Besides quantity, the texture and type of food also play pivotal roles. Liquid diets or foods in a pureed form can be much more palatable for the stomach, enhancing the rate of digestion.
When dietary changes aren’t sufficient, the medical realm offers its tools. Prokinetic medications rise to prominence here. Their primary function is to expedite the stomach’s contractions, encouraging quicker emptying. Medications like metoclopramide are often front-runners. However, they aren’t without their downsides. Long-term use can usher in side effects, necessitating regular check-ups and monitoring.
For many with gastroparesis, nausea isn’t just an occasional inconvenience; it’s a recurrent, debilitating symptom. Here, anti-emetics come into play. Designed to mitigate nausea and, in some cases, vomiting, they can significantly uplift a patient’s quality of life. By offering relief during acute symptom spikes, these drugs can be true game-changers.(6)
