I was diagnosed with GP about 5-6 years ago. It was about a year after having radiation treatment to my larynx for a small tumor that had been removed. A couple of months after finishing radiation treatment, which left me with severe burns to my neck, I developed a painful throat infection. A specialist at a well regarded hospital put me on an aggressive course of antibiotics and anti fungals for 30 days. That’s when I started having GP symptoms, which, at first, was diagnosed as IBS. The gastroenterologist thought the medications had destroyed the good flora in my stomach. I don’t know if that’s what started it, but it definitely has gotten worse. I just started to get serious about my diet. I have little to no appetite and have lost about 17 pounds, more rapid loss lately. My symptoms are: I have very frequent small bowel movements for several hours after I get in the late morning. Some days, especially lately, it can go on almost all day. I have a history of hyperthyroidism and my labs have been a little crazy. Finally within range. My endocrinologist has adjusted my medication. All these daily bowel movements have resulted in painful hemorrhoids. So, I’m pretty miserable.
I don’t vomit but I feel full after eating a small amount and it feels like there’s a wide tight band across my waist.
Anybody have similar symptoms? Would appreciate any suggestions. Thanks.

Well, I officially was diagnosed on1/24/2023. But issues started about 5 -6 years ago and was diagnosed with IBS. Few rounds of medication for suspected ulcers. It would quiet for a bit and then often start quickly back.
I have been a type 2 diabetic for about 22 years. Starting in the Summer of 2022 three things seemed to happen at once. I could not stay out of the bathroom, constant diarrhea with cramps, and gas both upper and lower. constant pain, The kicker that really did me in, I could no longer control my diabetes, which was totally uncontrolled. In December met with the endocrinology team, Had the test on January 24. So been following low roughage, low fiber diet, and trying to keep my total carbs per day to 150. The amount of two good yogurt and low-fat cottage cheese is a staple, My commitment was 90 days and then start bringing some food back. Whitefish I can eat with no issues. I so miss fresh fruit and fresh veges. One time I had some watermelon that will not happen again.

How awful for you to be going through this and then on top of that, the physicians you are seeing are not respectful and nonchalant about your pain.
That makes me angry for you.

DO NOT let doctors treat you poorly. If one treats you badly and dismisses you like you described, find another doctor.

Here is the shortened version of my story. I hope it might help you in
some way:
I was diagnosed with cancer two and a half years ago. However, the pathologist and oncologist misdiagnosed the type of cancer it was. When I started researching it, some of the pieces just didn’t seem to fit, so I contacted MD Anderson, in Houston, TX. Long story short, they gave me the correct diagnosis and likely saved my life. The initial oncologist I saw seemed intimidated and insulted by my self advocacy.

Following my chemotherapy, I developed gastrointestinal neuropathy. The chemo damaged my vagus nerve. This caused severe GERD, gastroparisis and slow intestinal motility. I again, first went to a local doctor and surgeon. They did a fundiplication. It did not work and symptoms continuously got worse. The reflux, burning, nausea, vomiting, etc. was horrific. My oncologist at MDA finally referred me to a gastroenterologist there. He, in turn, recommended surgery and referred me to a surgeon at Houston Methodist. Dr. Lee Morris ended up redoing the fundiplication that appeared to have not been done properly, removed massive adhesions that had formed in my abdomen, repaired a hiatal hernia and performed a pyroplasty to treat the gastroparisis.
It took him 6-7 hours of surgery. However, it has been a godsend. The pyroplasty is not a cure all, for the gastroparisis, but it is SO much better. I still have to eat slower and in smaller amounts at a time, but if I do it right, I don’t have those miserable symptoms everyday.

Please find yourself a doctor who will listen to you and have empathy. If you have to travel to do it, I promise it will be worth it. Don’t let doctors blow you off and dismiss your struggle. You know your own body better than anyone else. Doctors who respect that are usually the best ones.

Again, my surgeon is Lee Morris, at Houston Methodist. He did an amazing job for me and gave me a life again. I wish you luck in finding relief.

Best,
TJ

I was diagnosed with gastroparesis this year and a very good gastroenterologist suggested botox treatments. It is not covered by insurance and it is costly but the pain is absolutely gone. I follow the suggested diet but I am pain free now. There is a time limit on how long this lasts but it has been four months and I am totally satisfied. Ask your doctor about it.

Yes, unfortunately it is usually progressive. I would encourage you to see a gastroenterologist associated with a large research hospital for more information. And the good news is that remission sometimes seems to happen - at least for me.

I'm sure I have gastroparesis also and have also experienced terrible input from gastroenterologists such as "eat oatmeal every morning", "don't eat oatmeal", "eat plenty of fiber", "don't eat fiber", etc.
I'm 90 years old and presently following a diet from Cleveland Clinic specified for gastroparesis with mixed results. I'm presently suffering from severe constipation and will probably enter the ER tomorrow if I don't find relief. Laxatives don't work.
Wondered if in your experience you've found a routine that's successful with gastroparesis? Constipation?
Regards,
Tadueo

You must determine the cause of the gastroparesis and treat that. Many meds can cause it, notoriously opiods and antidepressants, as well as diabetes, peripheral neuropathy of the autonomic (involuntary) nervous system, low thyroid, etc. There are peristalsis promoters like Reglan and newer ones that a GI Dr can prescribe. Hot foods and drinks promote peristalsis, cold slows it down. Avoid gas producing foods, plus NO straws, carbonated beverages, chewing gum. Treat post nasal drip which makes you swallow more air. Exercise especially walking helps GI movement. Little things can help a lot.

Thanks for the info. I'm on it.