Gastroptosis

Overview

Gastroptosis is an abnormally low position of the stomach when standing, caused by weakness of the suspensory structures, lax abdominal muscles, and reduced gastric tone. It commonly affects thin, frail individuals and presents with postprandial bloating, upper abdominal discomfort, and indigestion.

Symptoms

• Abdominal bloating
• Postprandial fullness
• Poor appetite
• Dull pain

Treatment

Management is mainly conservative with small frequent meals, lying down after eating, and strengthening the abdominal muscles; symptomatic cases may use medication to improve gastric motility.

Dietary advice

Eat small frequent meals of nutritious, easily digestible food and avoid activity immediately after eating.