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Gastroparesis literally means “paralysis of the stomach.”  It is a motility disorder in which the stomach muscles, controlled by the Vagus Nerve, fail to contract and move food from the stomach into the intestines at the proper rate.  This slowing of stomach emptying can cause debilitating (and sometimes life-threatening) symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, heartburn/GERD, early satiety, and extreme fatigue. Serious complications can result, such as malnourishment, dehydration, extreme weight loss, esophageal damage, bezoars (solid masses of undigested food in the stomach), and blood sugar fluctuations. 

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) estimates that more than 5 million Americans have gastroparesis.  The most common known cause of this condition is Diabetes, which accounts for approximately one-third of the cases.  Other known causes include neurologic disorders (such as Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s Disease), connective tissue disorders, complications resulting from surgeries, various medications (such as some narcotics and antidepressants), and direct damage to the Vagus nerve.  Most cases of gastroparesis, however, are labeled “idiopathic,” meaning that there is no known cause. Living with this uncertainty can be frustrating and stressful. 

As of now, there is no safe, reliable, and effective treatment or cure for gastroparesis. Available treatment options include dietary modifications (liquid or soft solids), surgeries (such as feeding tubes, ports, PICC lines, and the gastric electrical stimulator), medications such as Reglan (which comes with a “Black Box” warning from the FDA) and Domperidone (which has not been FDA approved for this purpose in the US), and even Botox injections.

Living with this condition is a challenge, both physically and emotionally.  We need more awareness, research funding, better treatments, and, ultimately, a cure.  

We are trying hard to raise funds and bring attention to our cause. It would mean so much if you would donate. Thank you very much!