Delayed gastric emptying happens when the stomach takes too long to empty of food. It can cause digestive symptoms and problems with eating or growing.

Some of the most common GI symptoms of gastroparesis include:

• Belly pain or bloating
• Nausea or vomiting (especially after meals but may be several hours after eating)
• Feeling full after just a few bites
• Poor appetite
• Trouble gaining weight or growing
• Regurgitation or burping
• Dehydration from not keeping food or liquids down

Typically, the cause is stomach muscles that don’t move food the way they should. In many kids, the underlying reason for this is unclear. Sometimes it develops after a viral infection. Other times, it’s linked to other health issues like long-standing diabetes or autonomic nervous system issues.

Kids with gastroparesis can have constant pain. They may lose a lot of weight or have other symptoms that get in the way of their lives. This condition can affect nutrition, weight, school attendance and overall mental health.

We tailor treatment to your child’s specific needs, based on their:

• Age
• Health
• How they respond to treatment

Our team will work closely with you to manage symptoms and improve your child’s quality of life.

Common treatments include:

• Medicine: Some medicines help the stomach empty more quickly. Others target symptoms like nausea, belly pain or bloating.
• Diet changes: We often recommend small, frequent meals and a diet that’s low in fat and fiber. Our dietitians can help build a plan that supports your child’s nutrition and growth.
• Therapy: Speaking with a counselor can help kids manage the emotional side of a GI condition. It can also reduce how strongly they feel symptoms like nausea and pain.

If these aren’t working, neurostimulation therapies may help.

These include:

• Auricular neurostimulation: A non-invasive option. It may help regulate gut-brain signals and reduce nausea and abdominal pain.
• Gastric pacermaker: A surgically implanted device. It sends gentle signals to help the stomach muscles work better.

We’ll help you understand every option — and guide you toward the right care plan for your child.

At Children’s Wisconsin, we know how hard it is to see your child losing weight and struggling to eat. Our gastroenterologists are experts in treating kids with complex nausea and motility symptoms.

We’re one of the few programs in the country offering advanced testing and cutting-edge treatments. Our whole-child approach supports your child’s body, mind and family life.

Your First Visit

At your first appointment, we take time to hear your child’s full story. We’ll review their symptoms and medical history. We’ll talk about test results and treatments you’ve tried. Your child will get a physical exam and we may ask for more testing to learn about what’s causing their symptoms.

Tests may include:

• Upper GI series: An imaging test that checks for intestinal blockages.
• Upper endoscopy: A camera test that checks the lining of the stomach and small intestine.
• Gastric emptying study: A scan that shows how quickly food leaves the stomach. While the traditional test may not accurately confirm gastroparesis in children, our team is actively working on integrating the latest research using a gastric emptying breath test. Our CW research team is leading nationwide research efforts in this area.
• 24-hour pH impedance testing: Tracks reflux and helps us see how it affects digestion.

We’ll explain every test and the next step clearly. You’ll leave with a plan and a team ready to support you.

During Treatment

We use a team-based approach tailored to your child. We help your child manage physical symptoms and cope emotionally.

Your child’s care team may include:

• Neurogastroenterologists who specialize in gastroparesis
• Radiologists who perform and interpret imaging studies
• Registered dietitians who help build safe, nourishing meal plans
• Pediatric psychologists who support kids living with chronic illness
• Nurses and pain specialists trained in digestive disorders
• Surgeons for procedures like gastric pacer implantation

We stay in close touch, adjust the care plan as your child grows and bring in additional experts when needed. Your child may be dealing with pain, missed school, trouble eating or social stress. We’ll work with you to find solutions that fit your family.

After Care

Children with gastroparesis often need ongoing care. Some improve quickly, while others need support for months or years. We’ll track your child’s progress, coordinate with your local doctor and adjust the plan as needed.

As your child starts feeling better, we’ll help you plan for the next steps. That means going back to your home care team, managing care at home or continuing with us. Our goal is always the same: to help your child feel better, eat well, grow strong and enjoy everyday life.