Dysmotility Dr Rob Hicks Food is moved through the digestive tract by muscles in the gut wall. Dysmotility occurs when abnormal gut contractions result in slow and uncoordinated movement.

In this article

What is it? What causes it?

What are the symptoms? Who's affected?

What's the treatment?

Abnormal contractions can occur anywhere along the length of the gut - in the oesophagus or small intestine, for example - and may affect more than one part at a time. In general, however, dysmotility refers to abnormal movement through the stomach, also known as gastroparesis or delayed gastric emptying.

It appears that inadequate or over-enthusiastic contractions of one part of the stomach are responsible for the delayed gastric emptying. For example, if the sphincter at the bottom of the stomach contracts too strongly, the stomach contents won't be able to leave the stomach.

If coordination of the contraction and relaxation of muscles is out of sync, food won't be propelled forwards properly. If the contractions within the stomach are too weak or not frequent enough, food won't be propelled onwards effectively.

On investigation, no structural abnormality or other sign of disease can usually be identified to account for the dysmotility. In such cases, the dysmotility is called idiopathic.

But those affected can often recall an event they believe triggered the problem, such as a viral stomach upset or course of antibiotics.

Many people find they experience occasional dysmotility, with the trigger being the food they've had or the way they've eaten. Fatty and rich foods, too much alcohol, eating late at night, and eating on the go make it difficult for the stomach to function properly.

It can also occur as a complication of diabetes, Parkinson's disease and after stomach surgery. It may also be a side-effect of medication.

If the normal digestive action of the stomach slows, food sits in the stomach for too long. This build up - or pooling - of food and stomach secretions results in the common symptoms of dysmotility, which include nausea, vomiting, excess belching, reflux of stomach acid and bloating.

Some people feel full and uncomfortable after just a few mouthfuls of food, while it leaves others feeling lethargic. The symptoms often reduce a person's quality of life, dictating what they eat and what activities they take part in.

Although more common in women, dysmotility can also affect men and children.

Sensible, healthy eating is vital if someone is to reduce the affect dysmotility has on their life.

• Take time to eat and enjoy food
• Don't drink too much alcohol
• Eat lighter, smaller meals regularly throughout the day
• Avoid those foods you've identified as triggers

Prokinetics - medicines that promote the emptying of the stomach - can be used to help overcome the problem.

This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Rob Hicks in January 2008