Gastroparesis is a medical condition in which the stomach takes longer than usual to send food to the small intestine for digestion. Dr Dattatray Solanke, consultant gastroenterologist at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, has provided information about this disease. The severity of its symptoms can vary in each individual.

Causes and diagnosis

Major causes of this condition include diabetes, stomach surgery, certain medications and unknown causes. In many cases, the exact cause of gastroparesis is not known.

Gastric emptying tests, endoscopy, blood tests and breath tests are conducted to diagnose gastroparesis.

Treatment and management

Treatment for this condition includes changes in diet, eating small quantities of food 5 to 6 times a day and medications.