What Is Gastroparesis?

What Is Gastroparesis?

Gastroparesis is a condition that affects how your stomach empties food into your small intestine. In people with gastroparesis, the stomach muscles work more slowly than normal or may stop working altogether. This delayed emptying can cause a range of uncomfortable and sometimes serious digestive symptoms.

At Bedford Gastroenterology, we help patients in Bedford, NH and surrounding communities find answers and relief through expert diagnosis and management of gastroparesis.

Common Symptoms of Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis symptoms can vary in severity and may come and go. If you’ve been experiencing digestive issues that don’t improve, it’s important to talk to a gastroenterologist.

Typical symptoms include:

  • Bloating or feeling full quickly when eating
  • Nausea and vomiting (especially of undigested food)
  • Upper abdominal pain
  • Acid reflux or heartburn
  • Poor appetite or unintentional weight loss
  • Fluctuations in blood sugar levels (especially in diabetics)

What Causes Gastroparesis?

There are several potential causes of gastroparesis. Some of the most common include:

  • Diabetes – especially when blood sugar is not well-controlled
  • Surgical procedures that affect the vagus nerve
  • Certain medications that slow digestion
  • Infections, autoimmune diseases, or nervous system disorders

In some cases, the cause may be idiopathic, meaning it’s unknown.

How Gastroparesis Is Diagnosed

If your provider suspects gastroparesis, they may recommend tests such as:

  • Gastric emptying study – to measure how quickly your stomach empties food
  • Upper endoscopy – to rule out other causes of symptoms
  • Imaging – like ultrasound or CT scans to check for structural issues

At Bedford Gastroenterology, we offer access to advanced diagnostic tools right here in Bedford, NH to help you get the answers you need quickly.

Treatment Options for Gastroparesis

While there is no cure for gastroparesis, there are many ways to manage symptoms and improve quality of life:

  • Dietary adjustments – smaller, more frequent meals; low-fat, low-fiber diets
  • Medications – to improve stomach motility or reduce nausea
  • Blood sugar management – for patients with diabetes
  • Feeding tubes or surgery – in severe cases

We work with each patient to develop a personalized care plan, often in collaboration with other local providers such as Delphi Primary Care, Apple Therapy, and nutrition support teams in Bedford, NH.

Get Expert Care for Gastroparesis in Bedford, NH

If you’re struggling with ongoing digestive issues, don’t wait. Gastroparesis is manageable but early diagnosis and treatment are key to avoiding complications and feeling your best.

📍 Located in Bedford, NH
📞 Call today to schedule an appointment: 603-367-3064