Gastroparesis Awareness Month 2026- Symptoms, Causes, & Diagnosis

Author: Megha Agarwal on Feb 20,2024

August is Gastroparesis Awareness Month. Gastroparesis is a condition wherein your stomach empties its contents into the small intestines very slowly. This condition is not because of some blockage but due to a malfunction in the nerves that serve this region. Here, Gastro refers to our stomach, whereas Paresis refers to nerve-related muscle weakness. 

 

The disease is uncommon among people. Out of every 100,000 people, only ten men and approximately 40 women suffer from the same. However, symptoms similar to gastroparesis occur in about one out of every four adults in the US. The problem can begin at any age, although the average age for the onset of the disease can be around 34-35. 

 

While gastroparesis is an uncommon disorder, it can be draining and exhausting for people suffering from the same. Lets understand more about the disorder and know what Gastroparesis Awareness Month 2026 holds for people. 

 

Gastroparesis Awareness Month 2026 

 

The month of August is dedicated to improving the understanding and managing the disorder. The disorder is known for delaying gastric emptying affecting the muscles in the stomach, preventing proper movement of food through our stomach and intestines. The muscles in our stomach are controlled by the vagus nerve, which contracts food movement through the gastrointestinal tract. When this nerve gets damaged, muscles in our stomach cannot function the way they usually should, meaning the food starts to move slowly at first, and at later stages, stops movement altogether. 

 

Symptoms 

 

The chronic condition is characterized by different symptoms varying between life-limiting to life-threatening. Some include the feeling of having a paralyzed stomach, often starting during or after consuming a meal, beginning to appear suddenly at times. 

 

Symptoms of gastroparesis disorder include:

 

- Nausea 

- Vomiting 

- Stomach fullness, even after a normal-sized meal

- Dry heaves or retching  

- Inability to finish a meal due to early fullness 

 

What causes Gastroparesis?

 

Most often, the cause behind gastroparesis is unknown and is sometimes termed idiopathic. Symptoms for the problem can begin after a viral infection, as seen in most cases. Other causes can include diabetes, certain medications, surgeries, and different kinds of illnesses. 

 

How do you know if you have Gastroparesis?

 

Diagnosis is usually done by a doctor, performing a physical exam and specific tests. You can tell your doctor about any previous surgeries or any medications that you are intaking. If the doctor does suspect the chronic disease, tests can further measure how fast your stomach empties into the small intestines to confirm the diagnosis. 

 

How widespread is the disorder?

 

As per different studies, the disorder affects an alarming number of Americans. However, the numbers can vary for different studies, between 500,000 to 5 million people. The National Institute of Healths research states this is only the tip of the iceberg, that is, gastroparesis. There are thousands of people experiencing symptoms close to the ones we have discussed above, but they remain undiagnosed owing to the lack of awareness. The symptoms also resemble those of celiac disease and GERD. 

 

Gastroparesis diagnosis and treatment

 

 

To diagnose gastroparesis, doctors during the Gastroparesis awareness month 2026 state that several tests need to be undertaken to rule out various conditions that may or may not be related to the problem. Several other issues can cause similar symptoms as we have discussed above. 

 

Diagnosis

 

Experts state that you might have to undertake the following tests:

 

Gastric Emptying Study Test 

 

To undertake this test, a patient will have to consume a light meal on the lines of toast and eggs containing tiny amounts of radioactive material. Doctors take the help of scanners that will be placed on your abdomen. These scanners can detect the movement of radioactive material in the food. The scanner will monitor the rate and time at which food consumed leaves your stomach. 

 

Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy 

The procedure helps examine your upper digestive system visually through a small camera.

 

Ultrasounds

Ultrasounds help diagnose the problems persisting in a persons gallbladder and kidneys and to understand if it is causing similar symptoms to gastroparesis. 

 

Upper Gastrointestinal Series 

A series of X-rays can also be undertaken wherein you will be made to drink Barium, a white, chalky liquid. The liquid will coat your digestive system, and if there are any forms of abnormalities, they will show up in your X-ray. 

 

Treatment 

Treatment for Gastroparesis includes medication and surgery (only if required). The foremost thing to note here is that if you are actually diagnosed with Gastroparesis, diet is a crucial aspect of managing the condition. 

 

On Gastroparesis awareness month 2026, if you are suffering from the condition, experts state the importance of a nutrient density-based diet that is easy on your digestive system. You will be required to intake small meals consisting of well-cooked meals, stripped of high-fat-based food. High-fat-based food items can delay the emptying of your stomach. 

 

Foods rich in fiber are somewhat difficult to digest and are also limited and sometimes completely eliminated in such conditions. Fruits and vegetables with naturally present nondigestible fiber content need to be cooked well to be served. In some cases, these foods might also be required to be converted into a puree for better absorption. 

 

Carbonated and fizzy beverages must be avoided at all costs, including alcoholic beverages. 

 

Gastroparesis Awareness Month 2026 promotes the importance of maintaining the vitality of our health as far as this condition is concerned. Pinpointing the diagnosis can sometimes be a little difficult, but once rightly done, it can help improve the overall life quality and other issues connected to this chronic disorder. Therefore, it is essential that you get screened for the conditions presented above, especially as you get older.

 

In addition to these treatment options, there are multiple prescription medicines that can help treat the symptoms of gastroparesis. Medicines like Prokinetic or promotility agents can help your stomach empty easily and quickly and can also improve nausea, bloating, and vomiting. However, you need to consult your physician before intaking such medicines. 

 

Dietary and lifestyle measures 

 

Nutritionists will help design a specific dietary plan to meet your personal requirements. If you have diabetes along with gastroparesis, your blood glucose level requires controlling as well. If your blood glucose levels go up after your stomach contents are emptied into the small intestines, this means you do not have gastroparesis since it is irregular in disorder. 

 

Procedures 

When a person has severe symptoms of gastroparesis, it can result in extreme dehydration. This can further lead to loss of essential nutrients and minerals from the body, often leading to an imbalance of electrolytes. Malnutrition is another consequence of the disorder getting severe, which can sometimes require hospitalization. Special treatment measures can help manage the disorder. These treatment measures can include:

 

- Enteral nutrition

- Parenteral nutrition 

- Gastric Electrical Stimulation 

- Other surgical procedures

 

Tips for living with Gastroparesis

 

 

In celebration of Gastroparesis Awareness Month 2026 this August, we have contacted experts and advocates to share some of their best tips for people living with the disorder. Gastroparesis is a terrible disorder, which often sees no cure. However, we hope that this article finds you and helps you navigate through your diagnosis process with the right advice. 

 

Read these tips to live a better life if you are suffering from this chronic disorder:

 

Baby Steps 

 

Suffering from Gastroparesis is overwhelming, especially when you are recently diagnosed. It might take many hits and trials to find out what you can include in your diet and what you cannot. Experts recommend keeping a small food journal to start your journey. You can write down the items you eat and see how your body reacts to them. You can start with either a paper and ink journal or download an app for the same. 

 

When you are writing and keeping track of the foods you consume, please also note down your symptoms. 

 

Every person is different, and everybody type is different. One thing that one person can tolerate might cause issues to the other person. 

 

Like, foods high in fiber content are not tolerated well by the digestive system of people with gastroparesis. They can cause serious health issues to people with the disorder. It will take some time, but you need to take baby steps to understand what your body can or cannot tolerate. 

 

Keep a check on your electrolytes.

 

Another thing you need to ensure is to keep a check on your electrolytes. Experts state that one way you can do this is to make your own electrolyte-based drinks instead of relying on Gatorade or Powerade. Other alternatives to these drinks can be Ensure or Boost, only if your body can tolerate them. 

 

Try to learn and make your own broth. It is essential to have it with you at all times when you are not able to digest your food properly. Broth can easily boost your electrolyte level by offering your body with necessary vitamins and minerals. 

 

Ginger candies can also help people suffering from nausea as a symptom, along with the drinks mentioned above. 

 

Find the proper medication. 

 

There are hundreds of medicines available as an option for treatment. However, you do not have to give up on finding the right one that suits your body. If your prescribed medication does not work out for you, talk to your doctor about the same. You might find a new medication or find a combination of different medicines that work for your case. 

 

If traditional medicines are not working out for you, and in fact, nothing is working in your case, dont be scared. Medical cannabis is another possible treatment option. Medical cannabis can help ease the symptoms; of course, the consumption of the same should be in control and limitation and with proper strains and terpenes. This method has helped people control nausea and vomiting and increase their appetite as well. Moreover, this also helps relieve the abdominal pain that comes along with the disorder. 

 

Final Word 

In 2015, Congresswoman Gwen Moore introduced the problem that affected thousands of Americans to the US House of Representatives. So, in honor of the National Gastroparesis Awareness Month 2026, lets learn more about the disorder and curtail it so it does not affect more peoples lives every day. 

 

Remember, if you have queries and questions about the disorder and other personal health conditions, talk with your physician. Take that first step and address your problems. 

 

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 Key LessonsOil pulling is an easy habit to work into your morning, and it can help keep your teeth cleaner and your breath fresher.The real key is consistency, not how long you swish.Both coconut and sesame oil do the job-they just offer different benefits.Think of oil pulling as a boost for your oral hygiene, not a replacement for brushing and flossing.A few tweaks in how you do it can make it work even better.Most people start their mornings with a cup of coffee or tea. Some grab their toothbrush right away. But there's another ancient habit that's quietly hanging on: oil pulling. People keep coming back to it, and more are giving it a try, hoping for a fresher mouth, healthier gums, or just that clean feeling before breakfast.Oil pulling really isn't complicated. You don't need any fancy products or major changes to your routine, and it fits right into busy mornings. If you stick with it, you might notice fresher breath, cleaner teeth, healthier-looking gums, and just a nicer start to your day.Oil Pulling Benefits Can Improve Your Morning Oral Care RoutineThe biggest oil pulling benefits come from consistency, not complexity. It takes only a few minutes and requires very little effort, yet many people notice their mouth feels cleaner before they even brush.The practice works as an extra step in oral care instead of replacing the basics. Brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly-none of that goes out of style.People say oil pulling gives them fresher breath in the morning, teeth that feel extra clean, gums that look healthier, less plaque over time, and just an all-around fresher mouth. Of course, everyone's experience is a little different.What is Oil Pulling and Why Has It Stayed Popular?Many people still ask, "What is oil pulling? Simply put, it is the practice of swishing edible oil around the mouth before spitting it out. Traditionally, sesame oil was common, though coconut oil has become equally popular today.Understanding what is oil pulling helps remove unrealistic expectations. It is not a cure for dental disease, nor is it a replacement for brushing. Instead, it supports overall oral hygiene by helping clean areas that brushing alone may miss.The reason what is oil pulling remains relevant is simple. The routine is inexpensive, easy to follow, plus requires no special equipment. That makes it practical for almost anyone.How Does Oil Pulling Work Inside the MouthA common question is how does oil pulling work if there are no chemicals involved. The answer is fairly simple. When you swish oil around your mouth, it mixes with your saliva and flows between your teeth, around your gums, and across the spots where bacteria love to hide. That motion helps loosen up gunk, so brushing works even better.Knowing how does oil pulling work also explains why gentle swishing matters more than aggressive movement. The goal isn't force. It is allowing enough contact time for the oil to coat different parts of the mouth.Don't Miss: Lemon Essential Oil: Benefits for Health and WellnessMaking the Routine Simple Every MorningMorning habits only last when they stay realistic. Trying complicated wellness routines usually ends the same way-they disappear after a week. Oil pulling succeeds because it fits naturally before brushing your teeth.A practical morning routine could look like this.StepTime NeededPurposeOil pulling5-10 minutesFreshens the mouth before brushingBrush teeth2 minutesRemoves plaque and cleans teethFloss1-2 minutesCleans between teethRinse if neededLess than 1 minuteRemoves remaining debrisSimple routines usually become lasting habits.How to do Oil Pulling Correctly Every Time?Many beginners wonder how to do oil pulling correctly without making mistakes. Start with about one tablespoon of oil. Swish gently around your mouth. Avoid gargling or swallowing it. Once finished, spit the oil into a trash bin instead of the sink since oil may harden inside plumbing.Learning how to do oil pulling correctly also means avoiding unnecessary force. Gentle movement works well enough. After spitting out the oil, rinse with water, then brush your teeth normally.How Long to do Oil Pulling Daily Without Overdoing it?Another question appears almost everywhere-how long to do oil pulling daily? Most people find somewhere between five and ten minutes comfortable. Some continue for fifteen minutes, though beginners usually build up gradually instead of starting there immediately.Understanding how long to do oil pulling daily depends on comfort as much as timing. If your jaw begins feeling tired, stop. There is no benefit in forcing it.Suggested Reading: Myrrh Oil: Enhancing Health And Wellness With Its BenefitsOil Pulling for Oral Health and Teeth Whitening ExpectationsOne reason interest keeps growing is oil pulling for oral health and teeth whitening. A lot of folks notice their teeth feel smoother and their breath smells better after adding oil pulling to their routine.It's a solid boost for your oral health and can make teeth look brighter, but don't expect it to erase deep stains like professional whitening does. Coffee, tea, tobacco stains, or discoloration caused by aging often require different solutions.Coconut Oil vs Sesame Oil for Oil Pulling ComparisonChoosing between oils can feel confusing. The good news is that both remain widely used.The table below makes the comparison easier.FeatureCoconut OilSesame OilTasteMild, slightly sweetRich, nuttyTextureSolid in cooler weatherAlways liquidPopular choice todayVery commonTraditional optionBest suited forBeginnersThose who follow traditional practiceOverall experienceFresh feelingSmooth swishing experienceWhen discussing coconut oil vs sesame oil for oil pulling, neither option is universally better. Personal preference matters.Also Read: Discover the Power of Clary Sage Oil: Benefits And BeyondConclusionLike anything you do for your health, the differences show up slowly. Some folks feel results in a few weeks. Others need more time. The trick is keeping expectations reasonable and just sticking with it. If you really want great results, you need to keep up with brushing, flossing, dentist visits, and eating well-oil pulling just adds a little extra help on top.FAQsCan kids try oil pulling?Oil pulling isn't the best for younger kids, since there's a chance they'll swallow the oil by mistake. If older kids are curious, talk to their dentist first and always watch them closely.Should you do oil pulling before or after breakfast?Most people oil pull before they eat or drink anything, right after waking up, right? That way, it slides right into your routine and feels more comfortable than doing it on a full stomach.Can oil pulling help with dry mouth?Some people say their mouth feels more refreshed afterward, but oil pulling isn't a cure for dry mouth. If you're struggling with ongoing dryness, definitely ask your dentist about it.Do you have to oil pull every day?If you want to make this habit stick, doing it daily is the goal. That said, missing a day here and there won't ruin your progress. Building up consistency over time is what really counts.

Powassan virus text on a piece of paper clipped

What Is Powassan Virus Disease? Causes and Prevention GuideĀ 

Powassan virus disease is a rare but debilitating condition that is transmitted through infectious tick bites. While infections continue to be relatively rare, health care providers and experts have been paying increasing attention to the illness because of a few unfortunate cases where it caused significant complications of the brain and nervous system.  Learning a bit about Powassan virus disease, how it's transmitted, warning symptoms, and ways that you can protect yourself can help a lot. What Is Powassan Virus Disease? If you're wondering, what is Powassan virus disease? Put simply, it's the disease you get if a tick infects you with the virus, which then spreads into your bloodstream. Some infected people may never even become sick, and those who do can range from those with very mild symptoms to others who develop devastating brain or neurological disorders. For those familiar with Lyme disease or Ehrlichiosis, this virus does not require quite so long a time attached to the host as some of these other diseases. How Does The Virus Spread? The vast majority of Powassan disease transmission occurs in the form of a bite from an infected blacklegged tick. Ticks usually like to hang out on leaves, in piles of leaves, brush, and tall grass, where it's easy to latch onto passing humans or pets and get carried home. Hiking, yard work, and gardening in these wooded or grassy areas pose a risk of transmission, especially when outdoors. People do not often feel the tick bite since the ticks are very small and usually attach to hidden parts of the body. One of the good things about this particular illness, however, is that it can't spread from person to person from an infected person. Learn More: What Are The Causes Of Common Colds: Understanding the ColdWhy Is It So Dangerous? You may be thinking, so why is this virus so dangerous? What doctors seem most worried about is the fact that this particular virus can take over. The virus can infect and damage the spinal cord and the brain, and when the nervous system is hit, it can trigger the onset of severe encephalitis (which means inflammation of the brain) and meningitis (inflammation of membranes covering the brain and spinal cord). Many people who become infected do fully recover, but several of them continue to have long-term consequences, such as loss of concentration and memory loss. In some cases, the disease may lead to death. Powassan Virus Symptoms To Watch For Some symptoms that might not strike the average person as tick-borne illness are the initial Powassan virus symptoms: Fever Headache Fatigue Nausea and vomiting Muscle pains and body aches Weakness However, if the brain and spinal cord are affected, patients will present with such Powassan virus symptoms as: Seizures Confusion and brain changes, including trouble walking and poor coordination Extreme weakness Trouble with speech or thinking Changes in alertness It will take time to discover that these may be Powassan virus disease symptoms, and doctors should be notified for medical intervention because they may occur quickly. When Do The Symptoms Of This Disease Occur? The Powassan symptoms usually first appear approximately a week or two after a tick bite occurs, or as long as a month after the bite, and people usually don't have memory or recollections of having been bitten.It's worth knowing whether one's neighbors or a part of town has had confirmed cases of Powassan virus disease because this would then serve as increased precautions. Be sure to monitor for signs and symptoms if one lives in an area that ticks inhabit. What Do Doctors Do To Diagnose Powassan Virus Disease? A medical professional may ask questions about the signs and symptoms you present and may also be interested in recent outdoor activities, if there were recent outdoor hobbies that have occurred, and your medical history.  Blood tests for Powassan antibodies will confirm the virus, as will certain other tests, such as in-vivo MRIs of the brain or lumbar punctures, if you are having difficulty or weakness in mobility or have had a headache. Treatment for Powassan Virus There are presently no specific anti-viral medicines to cure this viral infection. It is being managed mainly by administering care to ease its symptoms. Very mild symptoms may get well on their own with bed rest and sufficient hydration. Those suffering from a severe form of this illness are treated by placing him/her on: Intravenous (IV) fluids Breathing support if needed Medications to prevent seizures Treatments to reduce brain swelling Can Individuals Get Over This Disease? As with much in the world, outcomes for this specific illness can vary a lot. Certain people who are unfortunate enough to experience severe Powassan disease will have their own specific lingering health issues with memory, weakness, or balance challenges in the aftermath. Though for many, with appropriate and prompt medical attention, full recovery is very possible. How To Stay Safe From Powassan Virus For most people, the best prevention for all tick-related diseases is prevention of tick exposure. Prevention of ticks includes: Wear clothing that has a lot of sleeve and pant coverage when walking outdoors in tick-infested areas. Use spray for ticks on uncovered parts of the skin, clothes, equipment, or backpack according to product instructions. Stick to maintained walkways and roads, especially in woods. Avoid brushing against brush or grass in which ticks like to reside. Check your body for ticks as soon as you enter your house, school, or office building. Remove your clothes as soon as you arrive indoors. Shower and do your self-tick inspection right after leaving outdoor areas. Remove ticks in an appropriate manner. Read Next: Unveiling the Mystery Behind Dry Skin: Causes & TreatmentConclusion Even though the Powassan virus is rather uncommon, in many cases it has quite devastating effects due to its impact on the human body. It is important to learn how this viral disease is contracted, as well as some of the common symptoms associated with it. If you have experienced a tick bite or have traveled to a tick-prevalent area and are exhibiting any symptoms of infection, then seek medical assistance immediately.  Early diagnosis and prompt care are vital, as are preventative health care practices when living or playing in a region inhabited by ticks, as there is no targeted treatment for Powassan virus infection at this point in time. Frequently Asked Questions Can the Powassan be transmitted during blood transfusions? Cases via blood products have been suspected in the past; however, it remains an exceedingly rare transmission route, and the risk continues to be monitored by the blood product agencies. Transmission by tick bites remains the predominant mode of infection. Will a timely removal of the tick prevent infection? Prompt removal will reduce the chances of transmitting many types of tick-borne diseases; however, the virus is able to spread more quickly than some of the bacterial infections found on ticks. Prompt removal of the tick is a sensible tick-prevention measure, nonetheless. Is infection with the Powassan increasing? In recent years, an increased number of infections have been recorded, due in part to expanding tick populations, improved detection rates, and reporting practices. Despite these increased rates, the disease remains relatively uncommon when compared to other tick-borne diseases. What time of year is at the highest risk of infection? In most geographic regions where this virus is found, the majority of infections are reported during the late spring, summer, and early autumn months because there are increased opportunities for humans to be outside and in contact with the various types of infected ticks. In warmer months, in some years, the transmission risk can occur during some portion of the winter months.