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About a year after I graduated college I began having a lot of health issues. Primarily, I was experiencing extreme nausea on and off as well and vomiting. At the time I was working an overnight shift and most of my doctors blamed my collective health on the overnight shift. After several months of ensuring that as an answer i finally had several tests done ruling out most diagnoses they thought I could have (IBS, IBD, gallbladder issues). Meanwhile my vomiting and nausea were increasing to the point where I was throwing up blood frequently becausey esophagus was torn in spots from the frequency of forceful vomiting. I was told to see a psychologist and my doctor quietly suggested to my mother that I might have an eating disorder (despite the fact I was 22 years old and should have been told this information by my doctor).
I finally saw a new GI specialist in NYC who had me get a gastric emptying scan. My rate of digestion was severely slow (causing all of my symptoms). I was finally diagnosed with gastroparesis. While I was relieved to have a diagnosis I still get angry to this day that my symptoms were continually dismissed by male doctors. My health was in such a poor state by the time I was diagnosed. I was constantly in and out of the hospital because I was continually dehydrated or malnourished because I could not eat. I was eventually placed on IV nutrition for about 6 months, unable to eat and instead living off bags of IVs everyday. I eventually I wasted months of time fighting for a diagnosis instead of getting treatment.
In the 6 years since I’ve had great doctors. While my treatment continues to be a rollercoaster I am grateful for the gastric neurostimulator I had surgically placed that has changed my life. I will most likely struggle with this condition for the rest of my life since there is no apparent reason why I have it.
Moral of the story: if you know something is wrong… trust your gut and don’t give up on yourself!
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Gastroparesis: Listening to Your Gut When It Doesn’t Want to Listen Back
Gastroparesis, also known as delayed gastric emptying, is a condition where your stomach struggles to properly break down and move food forward into your small intestine. This can lead to a range of uncomfortable and frustrating symptoms, making it crucial to listen to your gut, even when it’s not sending the usual signals.
Understanding the Signs:While gastroparesis can manifest differently from person to person, some common symptoms to watch out for include:
Feeling full quickly after eating small amounts
Nausea and vomiting
Bloating and abdominal pain
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Early satiety (feeling full even though you haven’t eaten much)
Heartburn or acid refluxChallenges and Importance of Listening:
Living with gastroparesis can be challenging, as the digestive system, which is usually reliable and operates unconsciously, becomes unpredictable. This requires actively listening to your body’s subtle cues and adjusting your lifestyle accordingly.Here are some ways to listen to your gut in a new way:
Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues: Don’t force yourself to eat when you’re not hungry and stop eating when you feel comfortably full, even if it seems like a small amount.
Choose smaller, more frequent meals: Instead of three large meals, opt for 5-6 smaller ones throughout the day. This can help reduce the burden on your stomach.Focus on easily digestible foods: Soft, cooked vegetables, lean protein, and low-fiber fruits are generally easier for your stomach to handle compared to raw, greasy, or high-fiber options.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, but avoid carbonated beverages and excessive caffeine, which can worsen symptoms.
Manage stress: Chronic stress can exacerbate digestive issues, so practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation can be beneficial.
Remember, you are not alone:
While gastroparesis can be frustrating, several resources and support groups are available. Talking to your doctor, a registered dietitian, or joining a support group can provide valuable guidance, connect you with others facing similar challenges, and empower you to manage your condition effectively.14 Reasons that Cause Digestive Problems
By truly listening to your gut, even when its signals are different, you can take control of your health and manage your gastroparesis to live a fulfilling and empowered life.
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Hi! Who did you see in NYC? I am really struggling right now with horrible IBS but not finding anything to help.
I’ve tried to cut so many things out of my diet.
Any help would be appreciated. Feeling a little alone.
xoxo, sarah
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Also, am so sorry you’re feeling alone. That can be one of the worst symptoms of illness. Especially when it has to do with food, which culturally is such a dominant force in our lives. When you have problems with food social interaction can always just feel like a bit of a bummer. Hoping you find a solution… and let me know if you need any more advice. XO
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So sorry I didn’t see this sooner! I see two GIs and Weil Cornell in NYC. Dr. David Carr-Locke and Dr. Carl Crawford. I see Crawford specifically file the treatment of my gastropareis/pacemaker but he is a general GI as well. Would recommend either!
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