Hi Megan,

Not sure how long bezoars takes to form – just know you don’t want to chance one!!!!!! Gastroenterologists handle GI motility issues, but the vast majority do not do this on a regular basis (usually just very short term following surgeries) so its very important to find one who understands the risks, causes, and treatments. I’ve heard so many horror stories of people misdiagnosed for so long – this is critical. Cant tell you how many times when I’ve met a new GI doc they want to do yet another colonoscopy – that’s not the answer and tells me very quickly they don’t understand the condition and keep looking! The neurologist may be in total agreement of what you have – but the GI will have the latest treatments….. (the surgeon is great that he discovered the condition, but will he treat you long term for the condition?)

Carol Parrish’s article is good – there is also a very complete diet out there – just google “gastroparesis diet” and will come right up – very comprehensive. I’ve seen a dietician, but they work with your doc – and the doc is the key here. I drink bullion broth for a savory taste – just small amounts cause don’t want to fill up stomach – but the more calories you can get in a small amount going in – the better! When I very first got sick I could tolerate very small amounts of ramen noodles (regular pasta too hard too tolerate) and it was wonderful to have a different taste and some calories at the same time. Before I checked the diets I ate tried foods that made sense to me might work – I was wrong!!!!!! (but the noodles were ok – my gut just got worse so had to stop)

I don’t have to cook for others in the house – but I would, we eat with sight, and smell too, and I’ve actually made dishes and given them away to others that I knew I couldn’t touch – just to smell and appreciate them…… not the same – but a small way to indulge….

Memorize those diets! And hoping you find a awesome doc to help you….

Take care,