Being a mom is a beautiful journey, but it can also be challenging, especially when health issues arise. We’re here to offer support and compassion to moms who are experiencing stomach issues and searching for answers. In this blog post, we will explore the world of gastroparesis, a condition that I was diagnosed with after many months and testing. Let’s shine a light on it so you can be aware as well if you are having similar symptoms. We’ll discuss what gastroparesis is, its potential causes, the symptoms you might be experiencing, the challenges you face, and how you can seek a diagnosis.
Understanding Gastroparesis: Supporting Moms with Stomach Issues
What is Gastroparesis?
As a mom, it’s important to take care of yourself, but sometimes unexpected health concerns can arise. One condition that might be affecting you is gastroparesis. Gastroparesis is a term used to describe delayed gastric emptying, where food stays in the stomach longer than it should. It’s like having a “paralyzed stomach” that struggles to move and digest food properly. This condition can cause various symptoms, impacting your daily life and well-being.
This showed up for me in a number of ways. At mealtime, I was full much more quickly than normal – often eating only half my meal. And then, after each meal I was bloated and uncomfortable. After changing my diet and watching closely to see if there was a culprit with no relief, I knew I had to dig deeper.
Possible Causes of Gastroparesis
If you’re experiencing stomach issues, it’s natural to wonder what might be causing them. While the exact cause of gastroparesis is still unknown, one common factor is diabetes. Diabetes can affect the nerves, including the vital vagus nerve responsible for regulating digestion. However, please remember that gastroparesis can also affect moms without diabetes. Researchers are working hard to understand other potential causes, as they continue to explore this condition.
Recognizing the Symptoms
As a mom, you know your body best, and it’s important to pay attention to any changes or discomfort you experience. Gastroparesis can present various symptoms, such as heartburn, reflux, upset stomach, vomiting undigested food, feeling full quickly after eating, bloating, loss of appetite, weight loss, and abdominal cramping or pain. These symptoms can disrupt your daily life and make it difficult to care for yourself and your family.
Challenges You Might Face:
Dealing with stomach issues can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to be the best mom you can be. The constant bloating, pain, and discomfort can take a toll on your overall well-being. The unpredictable nature of flare-ups can make it challenging to plan meals and enjoy social activities, leading to feelings of isolation and frustration. Additionally, managing your nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight may feel like an uphill battle, impacting your energy levels and ability to care for your little ones.
Seeking Diagnosis and Support
If you suspect that gastroparesis might be causing your symptoms, reaching out for help is an important step. As a mom, your well-being matters, and seeking a diagnosis is essential for understanding and managing your condition. Schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist (GI doctor) who can guide you through the diagnostic process. Various tests, such as gastric emptying tests, blood tests, X-rays, and specialized technology, can help determine if gastroparesis is the underlying cause of your symptoms.
It took numerous doctors dozens of tests to discover that this was my issue. Finally we tried a procedure called a Gastric Emptying Test which ultimately diagnosed this issue for me.
Support and Empowerment for Moms
Being a mom with stomach issues can be tough, but remember that you are not alone. Many other moms are going through similar experiences and can provide valuable support. Connecting with online communities, support groups, or seeking guidance from healthcare professionals who understand your concerns can make a significant difference. Reach out to others, and don’t hesitate to ask for help or share your worries.
Ways to Improve Gastroparesis
While Gastroparesis is considered a chronic condition, there are ways to manage and work with it to decrease how it affects your day-to-day life.
Primarily working on dietary modifications as well as your overall eating plan can greatly improve your symptoms. This may involve consuming smaller, more frequent meals that are easier to digest, focusing on low-fiber and low-fat options. Experimenting with different cooking techniques, such as pureeing or blending foods, can also aid digestion. Specifically, I find that uncooked vegetables, fruits with peels and bananas are troublesome to my digestion. Since you may become full faster, shifting to eating more, smaller meals each day can greatly help you receive the nutrition you need while staying comfortable.
Medications can play a crucial role in managing the symptoms of gastroparesis as well. Your healthcare provider may prescribe specific drugs to address your condition. Prokinetic medications, for example, can help stimulate stomach contractions, promoting better digestion. Antiemetic drugs may also be prescribed to control nausea and vomiting, providing relief from these distressing symptoms. By working closely with your healthcare provider and following their guidance, you can find the right medication regimen to alleviate the impact of gastroparesis on your daily life.
Conclusion
As a mom, your health and well-being are essential to caring for your family. If you’re experiencing stomach issues, gastroparesis might be the cause. By seeking knowledge, understanding, and support, you can better navigate the challenges you face. Remember to be kind to yourself and reach out for medical advice to receive a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Together, as moms supporting moms, we can create a compassionate and understanding environment where we uplift and empower each other on our journey through health challenges.
Want to hear more about this from my perspective? Tune into this episode of 123 Momsquad!
