Diabetic Complications

Because gastric emptying in gastroparetics is erratic and unpredictable, glucose levels can fluctuate dramatically throughout the course of a day. As food remains stagnant in the stomach, glucose levels begin to drop, as there is nothing available for the small intestine to digest. However, when food finally does enter the small bowel, blood sugar can increase rapidly. This sudden increase can further exacerbate both gastroparesis and diabetes, creating a cycle of uncontrolled blood sugar and putting the patient at risk for further complications

Another condition that occasionally arises from having DGP is called Hypoglycemia Unawareness. Normally a patient can recognize when their blood sugar drops to levels that are too low when they start to sweat, experience palpitations or begin to shake. In gastroparesis (and other forms of autonomic neuropathy) this important mechanism can be lost. This is a very hazardous situation: left untreated; hypoglycemia can get worse and cause confusion, clumsiness, or fainting. Severe hypoglycemia can lead to seizures, coma, and even death.

For additional information regarding hypoglycemia, refer to the fact sheet at www.diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/hypoglycemia.

Diabetic Gastroparesis

Causes

Treatments

Additional Resources