Gastroparesis and mild chronic pancreatitis

Posted by renem @renem, Sep 26, 2021

In May 2021 I had an EUS where findings were suggestive of mild chronic pancreatitis (CP). I was told to follow a low fat diet which I have been following for years.
Last week I had a gastric emptying study, 98% retention at 1 hour, 87% at 2 hours, and 36% at 4hours.
Does anyone know if those results indicate mild GP or severe GP?
Also, is there a connection between CP and GP? I have not met with my Gastroenterologist yet to discuss findings, but nurse gave me a sheet on what to eat, not to eat.
My symptoms include early fullness, nausea, bloating and heartburn. I also have mild ringing in my ears, sometimes worse than other times. I have had a chronic dull gnawing pain in RUQ just above belly button for several years now. It's really hard to get clear answers or direction from doctors.

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I have had GP for almost 10 years. I had 98% of my stomach removed and now have all sorts of other problems. Low carb no fat diet is what is saving me! Don’t fill up after eating and eat slow.

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@renem, welcome. The most common symptoms of chronic pancreatitis are abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. The abdominal pain has no consistent pattern, and nausea and vomiting commonly occur simultaneously. Gastroparesis may produce similar symptoms. These similar symptoms may cause diagnostic confusion.
@jojo19 @cookiegnias @astaingegerdm may be able to provide more insight from their experiences.

Rene, When is your consult with your gastroenterologist?

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@astadt4479

I have had GP for almost 10 years. I had 98% of my stomach removed and now have all sorts of other problems. Low carb no fat diet is what is saving me! Don’t fill up after eating and eat slow.

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Astadt4479, low carb, no fat? Or low carb, healthy fat?

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@colleenyoung

Astadt4479, low carb, no fat? Or low carb, healthy fat?

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Low carb high protein

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@renem I agree that it’s extremely confusing to decipher the cause of abdominal pain- especially in the upper stomach.
I have now a very mild form of chronic pancreatitis- no severe symptoms for a long time. However, I get “attacks” when I - unknowingly- eat the wrong type of fat. My gallbladder is gone, but I can still get tiny, tiny gallstones - called gravel-blocking the pancreatic duct too, since they empty into the duodenum with a common opening.
I’ll get severe right upper abdominal pain, radiating to the back. Nausea, bloating too. They seem to last about 8 hours.
I was told years ago that I have motility problems, one being emptying of the stomach. The last gastric emptying test I had at Mayo was normal.
I have to be very careful with the volume of food I eat.
I also have GERD.
You will learn as you go. Bring questions when you see the gastroenterologist. Also, if not explained, ask why different tests are done.
Finding the safe diet is a key for me. It’s good to keep track of what you ate before you feel sick.
They recommend a low-fat diet, but that can mean different things. Even if I eat the leanest piece of pork, I’ll feel it. I’m fine with butter, not olive oil. Etc.
I’m very interested to hear about your upcoming appointment and would appreciate it very much if you post your impressions, results etc.

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@colleenyoung

@renem, welcome. The most common symptoms of chronic pancreatitis are abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. The abdominal pain has no consistent pattern, and nausea and vomiting commonly occur simultaneously. Gastroparesis may produce similar symptoms. These similar symptoms may cause diagnostic confusion.
@jojo19 @cookiegnias @astaingegerdm may be able to provide more insight from their experiences.

Rene, When is your consult with your gastroenterologist?

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I see my Gastro dr on the 21st of October. I will come prepared with questions. I agree, the diet and how much I eat at one time is critical to controlling nasty symptoms! Thanks everyone

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