GP Tips

Super close-up of a Daisy with the HEDS Up! feature title 'GP Tips' and the words 'With Gastroparesis, one size does not fit all and managing symptoms can be impossible.  When the drugs don't work, try the tips our interviewees gave to us'  and #YouSeeUs written on the image.

#GPTips

Dealing with Gastroparesis is very much hit and miss process. What works for one may make another person’s symptoms worse. 

One of our interview questions asked for tips on how to deal with the torture of GP

Here is what our #ysuTribe members gave us. 

We hope they help you – even just a little.
No matter how tempting, 
don't eat food that you know 
will aggravate your system. 
 Nine times out of ten it is 
NOT worth it. 


Chew foods really, really well to help digestion and try to stay hydrated.


Take it one day at a time.


Seek help until the underlying issue that causes your symptoms is found. 


'Treating my Gastroparesis directly with a prokinetic and dietary management was much more effective at improving my quality of life than only treating the symptoms.'  


Find support in the online Spoonie communities.  It is so helpful having others know exactly what you're going through.   


Try to open up in real life to family and friends about the difficulties and struggles you face if possible.  Even if they can't totally understand, they can offer their support and be there for you. 


Try to not upset your tummy when you're not in a flare.  "When I am having a fare, I drink Pedialyte and ginger ale while trying to eat occasionally in hopes something would stay down.  If not, that’s okay because at least some food has got in my system," one of our interviewees said.


Heating pads are great for pain but try not to sleep with them because it is a hazard


Try Zofran and Phenergan suppositories (if they’re suitable and your doctor will prescribe them) when you can't keep anything down.  Especially the suppositories because sometimes it will help you sleep, at least.
  

If you think something is wrong despite treatments, continue to try new doctors.  Don’t stop trying new treatments and doctors until you find something that works for you. 


What works for one person may not work for others.  Don’t become discouraged.  Keep trying to find the right treatment.


Remember that you are strong and a fighter and you are not alone – reach out to us online. 
Always have your nausea and vomiting meds with you if you can.  

Always carry a list of your medicines, doctors, and conditions with you.  

Have a support system. 

This support system can be family, friends, a pet or an support group online - where most of us find succour in tough times.  Dealing with gastro issues can cause all sorts of anxiety and you need someone to lean on or someone who understands.  

You do not need to go through this alone. 
Be prepared. 

If your symptoms are 
nausea and vomiting, 
always have a vomit bag 
with you wherever you go 
just in case.
If you don't have any support at home, go online.  

There are tons of support groups on Facebook.  Even if you do have lots of support at home, joining a support group can be very helpful. Sometimes you have questions that only someone with your condition can answer.  Another form of support may be your faith.  

No matter what your condition, try to carry around a safe snack to eat in case you go somewhere that doesn't have any good options for you.  


When going on a trip, take safe foods and drinks with you.  Get a hotel room with a refrigerator and microwave if you need to.  


No matter how tempting it may be, don't eat food that you know will aggravate your system.  Nine times out of ten it is NOT worth it.  


Finally, do not give up. 

There will be days you want to.  

On particularly rough days and you feel like you just can't go on, remind yourself that your track record of getting through bad days so far is 100%.  

Lean on your support system, whatever it may be (a pet or even your bed an lot of rest and sleep), on those particularly bad days and know that you aren't alone.  

Keep persevering.  

It will get ease.     

Don't forget to leave your tips in comments. We'd love to see them! 

words by Melissa, Lisa, Evie, Kristin, Miriam, Michelle and Kristyn for #YouSeeUs
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