Hello. It took me awhile to get my official Gastroparesis diagnosis. My symptoms started in the military. While serving though, I was told such things as it is viral, IBS, or constipation.
Many years later, through the VA, I was finally diagnosed with Gastroparesis based on symptoms and a Gastric Emptying Study. I was given Reglan and told that is all that the VA could do for me.
I requested to go elsewhere for care. As I knew that there were other treatments out there. I had to go over 4 hrs away to Houston for treatment. There I ended up getting a gastric stimulator and then a jejunal feeding tube (into the small intestine). This only worked temporarily for me.
I moved my care and was put on TPN (total parental nutrition). This has been the best treatment for me so far.
I have since been diagnosed with Autonomic Dysfunction and specifically Autoimmune Autonomic Gangliopathy. This contributes to my Gastroparesis, Hypotension, Hypoglycemia, Colonic Dysmotility, Dysphagia, and other bodily systems.
All in all, I am thankful for the diagnoses as I know what is causing these symptoms and can better care for myself.
I also advocate for my care and others now. I have also become an Oley Ambassador, which I enjoy so much.
