Type 2 Diabetes and Gastroparesis: What You Need to Know

Gastroparesis is a disorder wherein the stomach takes an exceedingly long time to empty itself. It affects individuals that are afflicted with both type 1 as well as type 2 diabetes. When blood sugar levels fluctuate on a regular basis, diabetes can cause damage to the vagus nerve, which is responsible for the movement of food through the digestive tract. Gastroparesis, as a disorder, is a sign of autonomic neuropathy, which may further affect several other involuntary actions in the human body. ICD 10 code K31.84 for gastroparesis is a medical classification that is listed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) under the range: Diseases of the Digestive System.

Why Is Gastroparesis A Cause Of Concern For Diabetics?

When the vagus nerve does not function properly, gastroparesis can lead to the hardening of food into solid masses, eventually causing blockages and probable infection from bacteria. When the stomach fails to work properly, blood glucose absorption is also affected, making it much more difficult to control blood sugar levels.

Symptoms Of Gastroparesis

Mentioned below are signs that could be potential symptoms of gastroparesis:

• Heartburn
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Weight Loss
• An early sensation of fullness while eating meals
• Bloating in the abdominal section
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach discomfort
• Acid reflux

You need to consult your doctor immediately if you experience the above-mentioned symptoms.

Diagnosis Of Gastroparesis

To successfully diagnose gastroparesis, individuals may be asked to eat or drink barium or consume food that contains a radioactive substance, which will eventually show up during a scan. Your doctor will then be successful in seeing whether gastroparesis is harming you. Additional tests may include a tube-scope that helps in measuring muscular and electrical activity in the stomach.

Risk Factors For Gastroparesis

Women who have diabetes are at a greater risk for developing gastroparesis. Several other health conditions can increase your risk of developing gastroparesis, including prior abdominal surgeries or a known history of eating disorders.

Causes Of Gastroparesis

Individuals with gastroparesis have damaged vagus nerve. This leads to impairment of nerve function and digestion as the impulses required to churn food are to a great extent slowed down. Gastroparesis is quite difficult to diagnose, and often goes undiagnosed. Type 2 diabetes and gastroparesis are associated, with the prevalence of the disorder in those with type 2 diabetes being estimated at 30%.

Gastroparesis is mostly seen in individuals with high, uncontrolled blood sugar levels over a significant period. Extended periods of high blood sugar levels can result in nerve damage throughout the body. High blood glucose levels as a chronic condition can cause damage to the blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrition to the nerves and organs of the body, including the vagus nerve and the digestive system, both of which can cause gastroparesis.

Complications Of Gastroparesis

When food is not normally digested by the body, it can remain within the stomach, causing symptoms such as bloating and fullness. Undigested food can also lead to the formation of solid masses (which are called bezoars) that can lead to vomiting, nausea, and obstruction of the small intestine.

Gastroparesis poses severe problems for individuals with diabetes. This is because a delay in the process of digestion may make it difficult to control blood glucose levels. The disorder makes it hard to track the digestion process, leading to fluctuations in glucose readings. If your glucose readings are erratic, you need to share the same with your doctor, in addition to other symptoms that you may be experiencing.

Gastroparesis is a chronic disorder, which can be quite overwhelming. Making alterations to your diet and controlling blood glucose levels while simultaneously feeling unwell and nauseated to the brink of vomiting can be extremely exhausting. Individuals are also known to feel depressed and frustrated. 

Treatment Of Gastroparesis

Like most diabetic complications, the primary task is to keep your blood sugar levels under control. To achieve this, your doctor may adjust your intake of insulin. Changes will be needed to be made to your diet, such as modifying portion size and frequency of meals. Some doctors may recommend parenteral nutrition, which is direct delivery of nutrients to the bloodstream. By modifying your diet, you can successfully control gastroparesis. This may include consuming six small meals each day instead of three, eating a liquid diet, and avoiding foods rich in fats and fibre. 

The Final Word

Gastroparesis has no known cure. It is a chronic condition that can be managed successfully with dietary changes, maintenance of proper blood sugar levels, and certain medications. By making necessary modifications to the diet and lifestyle, individuals can continue to lead a fulfilling and healthy life.

Reference Links:

1. https://www.diabetes.co.uk/diabetes-complications/diabetes-and-gastroparesis.html
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/type-2-diabetes/gastroparesis