Gastroparesis, I think?

Posted By Ilene on August 25, 1998 at 05:03:02:







After many years of very regular gastrointestinal functioning,
two years ago I experienced a very dramatic change - a cessation
of natural bowel movements.  After one week, I finally went to
the doctor and soon found myself in the emergency room being
prepped for surgery for a blockage.  The barium enema, quite to
everyone's surprise, showed no blockage.  Yet, I continued to
bloat excessively (and painfully) and have no apparent natural
bowel functioning.  I underwent a series of tests - endoscopy,
colonoscopy, blood tests for parasites or infections, gastric
emptying, etc. - all of which simply confirmed the symptoms,
but no underlying cause.  The term "gastroparesis" was never
used, but I was told I suffered from "autonomic neuropothy."  
I am currently on a high dosage of Propulcid (40 mg. 4 times
daily). I only recently learned the word gastroparesis after
seeing a TV spot on "diabetic stomach" and then searching the
web.  I am not diabetic.  Any suggestions?  Would Domperidone
be more helpful than Propulcid?  What are the risk factors associated
with such a high dose of Propulcid?  What would explain the sudden
onset of this "paralysis," which effects my entire intestinal system,
not just my stomach?  Please help!