Understanding Gastroparesis: Raising Awareness & Support

This August, Health Network One is proud to join the global initiative for Gastroparesis Awareness Month, aiming to shed light on a chronic digestive disorder that affects 286 out of every 100,000 people in the United States. Despite its prevalence, gastroparesis is often misunderstood and underdiagnosed. Its symptoms, which include nausea, vomiting, bloating, and abdominal pain, are similar to those experienced by about 1 in 4 adults with other conditions. Gastroparesis involves delayed gastric emptying, leading to a range of debilitating symptoms that significantly impact the lives of those affected.

The Impact of GLP-1 Medications

Recent discussions in the medical community have highlighted the connection between GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, and gastroparesis symptoms. While these medications are essential in managing type 2 diabetes and aiding weight loss, they may also delay gastric emptying and exacerbate symptoms in patients with gastroparesis.??

"It is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers to be vigilant about potential side effects and to seek advice promptly if symptoms appear," said Health Network One’s Chief Clinical Officer, Dr. Edward Cabrera. "Increased awareness and proactive management are key to improving outcomes for those affected."

Understanding Gastroparesis

Dr. Craig Gluckman, a gastroenterologist and GI motility specialist at UCLA, offers a fresh perspective on the terminology in a UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine article published last year.

“The name ‘gastroparesis’ is a misnomer. I prefer the term ‘delayed gastric emptying’ because the stomach is not paralyzed. It’s just pushing food more slowly.”

He outlines the three stages of gastroparesis:

• ? Mild Gastroparesis: The stomach may empty slowly, but symptoms are mild and may not significantly impact daily life.
• ? Moderate Gastroparesis: Emptying is further delayed, with more noticeable symptoms affecting eating patterns and causing discomfort.
• ? Severe Gastroparesis: Emptying is significantly impaired, leading to severe symptoms, weight loss, malnutrition, and a substantial impact on quality of life. “It would be considered more severe if someone is dehydrated and unable to eat versus somebody with a milder form of the disease who just has occasional symptoms,” Dr. Gluckman said.

Despite its prevalence, the exact causes of gastroparesis remain largely unknown. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) points out that it’s often linked to diabetes, infections, certain medications, and surgeries impacting the stomach.

Other causes linked to gastroparesis have been neurological disorders like Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis because they can affect the nerves that control stomach motility. Autoimmune diseases have also been associated because they impact the nerves and muscles in the gastrointestinal tract.

Gastroparesis Life Expectancy

In his UCLA article, Dr. Gluckman emphasizes that gastroparesis “should never affect a person's life expectancy, and it should never be fatal.” However, he notes that if left unmanaged, severe gastroparesis can lead to complications that may become serious: “If somebody leaves the condition totally untreated for years and years, there is that potential that they could become severely dehydrated and malnourished.” He reassures, “In theory, somebody could die from gastroparesis, but it’s very unlikely they would get that severely ill without seeking medical care.”

Raising Awareness and Advancing Research

At Health Network One, we are committed to improving the lives of those affected by gastroparesis. By raising awareness, we aim to enhance understanding, inspire research, and support patients and their families.?

“Increasing awareness and understanding can significantly impact the lives of those affected by this condition,” said Dr. Cabrera.

Join us in observing Gastroparesis Awareness Month by learning more about the condition, sharing information, and supporting ongoing research efforts. Together, we can make a difference.

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