IFFGD will raise awareness for Gastroparesis during August to
shed light on the symptom burdens of those impacted.
MOUNT
PLEASANT, S.C., July 11,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Gastroparesis Awareness Month,
established by IFFGD in 2016, takes place every year
during August. This initiative by IFFGD aims to educate the public
about gastroparesis, highlight the importance of early diagnosis,
and advocate for improved treatment options. Gastroparesis is a
chronic disorder characterized by delayed stomach emptying, causing
a wide range of symptoms that can profoundly impact each person's
life in unique ways. While some individuals may experience mild
symptoms that can be managed with lifestyle modifications and
medication, others face severe symptoms that significantly impair
their quality of life.
Gastroparesis, also called delayed gastric emptying, is a
chronic digestive condition characterized by symptoms which can
vary from life-limiting to life-threatening and often persist or
reoccur over time. Some refer to it as having a paralyzed stomach
(Gastro = Stomach and Paresis = paralysis). Symptoms usually occur
during or after a meal and can appear suddenly or gradually.
Symptoms typically include:
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Stomach pain and discomfort
- Dry heaves
- Stomach fullness after a normal-sized meal
- Early fullness and the inability to finish a meal
Additional symptoms, such as bloating, stomach discomfort
or pain, loss of appetite, and heartburn, among others, may occur.
If left unmanaged, gastroparesis can lead to additional
complications, including severe dehydration, obstruction, poor
insulin control in individuals with underlying diabetes,
malnutrition due to poor absorption of nutrients, and emotional
challenges, further exacerbating the impact on individuals'
lives.
For those living with gastroparesis, the condition can be
debilitating. The constant discomfort and unpredictability of
symptoms can interfere with work, school, and personal
relationships. Additionally, frequent medical visits and treatments
can impose a significant financial burden on patients and their
families. "Awareness of the needs of gastroparesis patients can
lead to better management strategies and improved quality of life.
Ongoing research and a multidisciplinary approach are crucial in
advancing treatment options and providing holistic care for those
affected by this challenging disorder," said IFFGD president,
Ceciel T. Rooker.
In recognition of Gastroparesis Awareness Month, IFFGD
will launch a campaign to acknowledge the varied impacts on
individuals who live with gastroparesis — symptom burdens, finding
the right treatment options and lifestyle modifications, and how to
best advocate for yourself and other affected by this condition —
using the hashtag #GPimpact. During Gastroparesis
Awareness Month, IFFGD invites you to share your gastroparesis
story and make your voice heard by adding #GPimpact to
all social media posts.
Click here to download the official Gastroparesis
Awareness Month material.
About IFFGD
The International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD)
is a nonprofit education and research organization dedicated to
improving the lives of people affected by a chronic
gastrointestinal disorder. www.iffgd.org.
Media Contact:
Hayley McCorkle
379969@email4pr.com
414-946-1799
View original content to download
multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/gastroparesis-awareness-month-addressing-its-impact-on-quality-of-life-and-the-need-for-comprehensive-treatment-302193784.html
SOURCE International Foundation For Gastrointestinal
Disorders