Gastroparesis and scared

[EAlleman]

I have recently been diagnosed with gastroparesis, although I have had the problem several years now.  The amount that I am able to eat seems to be only a few bites at a time every few hours.  So far I have no explanation why I have this condition other than I have chronic gastritis.   Somehow, thank God, the symptoms disappeared while I was pregnant, but returned not longer after.  I also turned to overeating after my baby and wonder if this is what is causing my gastroparesis to begin with?  I'm having a hard time eating only small amounts.

[gnorb]

The cause of your gastroparesis could be a number of things. In order to find out why you'll probably have to do a number of tests. However, unless the condition is getting worse or you're showing definite signs of another condition, you'll probably be labeled "idiopathic" (meaning there's no known cause) unless you go see a gastroparesis specialist. That your symptoms improved during pregnancy may offer a clue as to the root cause, and possibly offer a path to resolution.

For the record, chronic gastritis would likely be caused by gastroparesis, not the other way around.

The best thing you can do at the moment is try to help your stomach lining stay protected by ensuring you keep a low-fat diet, and take supplements like DGL (chewed before meals) and chamomile tea, both of which help soothe the stomach lining. Also, see about supplementing with liquid meals more often. (I've taken to home-made smoothies.)

Talk to your doctor about possible medications to get the gastritis under control, as well as making sure to keep them up to date with any changes. Finally, see about meeting with a holistic physician, to see what alternative routes are available to you. (I've had some success with acupuncture. If you go this route, I recommend finding a TCM.)

Good luck.