Gastroparesis

[weldingd]

I have a 15 year old son with gastroparesis. He has not been in school for over a year, can  bearly get out of bed everyday, is sick all the time either throwing up or nauseated or headache. We have tired all the medications and now are using domperidone on the recommendation of a gastro specialist at Cedar Sini in Los Angeles and his ped.gastro specialist at Kaiser. The problem is they recommend the medication but don't really want anybody to know, really.  Therefore once you get the drug they don't work with us to adjust or be creative with the use. So the dose is one before each meal and one at bedtime.  What if he never eats. Does he take it anyway? He's averaging one to two pills a day. I've read where some people take two before each meal and sometimes three if they are going to eat a large meal.  I have also read a lot about the Enterra Therapy device.  Why is this device not more widely recommended and used. Is it not safer and has less side effects than taking medication for the rest of your life.  This condition is not going away. Where do we get help?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

There has been a comprehensive evaluation with multiple specialist referrals at a major academic medical center.  

Gastroparesis can be treated with medications like erythromycin or Reglan.  Investigational therapies like Botox injection or a gastric pacemaker may be options if the symptoms are severe.  

Obtaining another GI opinion should be considered if the symptoms continue.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com

[Margaret59]

Can anyone tell me what foods you can eat after an Endoscopy with Botox Injections for Gastroparesis.

Margaret

[namename]

Maybe try going to a few doctors in another state to see what they think.  Then you can talk freely about your son's medicine without worrying that others will find out what the doctor prescribed.  I think you should at least see a few doctors- or tell the first doctors your concerns that you need more support.  Make appointments instead of doing it over the phone.  Don't be put off by the doctor acting like you need too much attention.  You do need it, and are investing your time.

[Sue71517]

A related discussion, gastroparesis was started.