Health Tip: What's Gastroparesis?

When the stomach doesn't empty quickly enough

(HealthDay News) -- Gastroparesis, commonly affecting people with diabetes, occurs when the vagus nerve is damaged and the stomach and intestines don't process food normally. As a result, the stomach takes too long to empty.

The American Diabetes Association says common symptoms of gastroparesis include:

• Heartburn.
• Feeling nauseous, or vomiting food that hasn't been digested.
• Feeling full very quickly.
• Losing weight.
• Bloating in the abdomen.
• Lack of appetite.
• Fluctuating blood glucose levels.
• Gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn).
• Spasms of the stomach wall.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Feb. 26, 2010

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