My wife has GERD, causing bloating and vomiting. What tests help?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 34-year-old wife has GERD, but in the past few weeks, she has been struggling with severe bloating and a feeling of fullness even after eating small meals. She has also had occasional vomiting and mild abdominal discomfort, which has been interfering with her daily routine.

Could this indicate delayed gastric emptying, a complication like pyloric stenosis, or another underlying issue? What diagnostic steps, such as a gastric emptying study or imaging, would you recommend to help us find a solution?

Please help.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Feeling full even after eating small meals can lead to nutritional deficiency. It is related to delayed stomach emptying.

The possible causes are:

1. Gastroparesis that is commonly caused by diabetes.

2. GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).

3. Irritable bowel syndrome.

4. Stomach ulcer.

5. Gastric outlet obstruction.

6. Cancer.

The investigations to be done are:

Upper GIT (gastrointestinal tract) X-ray series for signs of gastroparesis
Upper endoscopy.
Abdominal ultrasound.
Stool test to check internal bleeding.
Gastric emptying scintigraphy to track how quickly food empties into the intestine.

The following tips are beneficial:

1. Eat smaller meals per day.

2. Reduce fat and fiber intake as they slow digestion.

3. Eat liquid food or puree.

4. Take appetizer stimulants.

5. Medication for stomach discomfort.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.