Yes. I feel for you.
Gastroparesis is impaired gastric motility that results in slowed or irregular stomach contractions which potentially alter the absorption of all of your nutrients (hunger, bloating, nausea, vomiting,etc), so you may not be getting everything you need on a daily basis. You may have some
malabsorption issues as well.
Has your physician put you through the typical battery of tests to determine the etiology of your painful condition? The most common diagnostic tests involve
upper endoscopy, barium X-Ray,
ultrasound to rule out strictures? After those tests are done and all is ruled out, there are about 3 other tests that can be done.
Keeping you on Reglan long term without finding the reason for your gastroparesis would not be the type of integrative long term treatment plan I would advise if you were my patient.I would try to determine the reason for the problem and treat that instead of treating the symptoms and forgetting about why you are having the symptoms in the first place.
While we are talking, let me make certain you are aware of how to take your medication. Take 1/2 hour before meals and at HS as directed-most importantly, on an empty stomach. Review package insert as possible side-effects may include
restlessness,
drowsiness, fatigue, edema, seizures, etc. and discuss if doctor if any side-effects occur.
You can always get a
second opinion, make an appointment with a local dietitian (or both) to get on a healthier track to feeling better and more energetic if you do not feel comfortable with your current treatment plan!
Healthy Regards, Kathryn Shattler, MS, RDN