Gastroparesis symptoms vary widely, but common ones include nausea, vomiting, early satiety (feeling full after eating small amounts), upper abdominal pain or bloating, and delayed gastric emptying. You might experience these symptoms constantly or intermittently. The severity can fluctuate significantly, too.
Diagnosing Gastroparesis
Diagnosing gastroparesis involves several steps. Your doctor will likely start with a thorough medical history and physical exam. They’ll ask detailed questions about your symptoms, dietary habits, and any medications you’re taking. A key diagnostic tool is the gastric emptying study. This test measures how quickly your stomach empties food. It involves eating a special meal containing a radioactive marker, followed by a series of scans to track the food’s movement. Other tests, such as an upper endoscopy (to visualize the inside of your stomach and esophagus) and blood tests (to rule out other conditions) might be necessary. Your doctor will use all available information to make a diagnosis.
Understanding Your Symptoms
Keeping a detailed symptom diary can be invaluable. Record the timing and severity of your symptoms, what you ate, and any other relevant information. This diary helps your doctor assess your condition and track your progress after treatment begins. Accurate recording also supports conversations with healthcare professionals. Remember that a proper diagnosis leads to effective management of gastroparesis symptoms.
