"What Causes Diabetic Pseudo-Obstruction?"

Diabetic Pseudo-Obstruction

Diabetic pseudo-obstruction is a rare complication of diabetes caused by neurological damage stemming from the disease. It results in motility disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to various symptoms. The primary characteristic of diabetic pseudo-obstruction is the weakening or loss of gastrointestinal motility, prolonging the retention time of food within the digestive system. Common causes of diabetic pseudo-obstruction include improper diet, medication side effects, diabetic autonomic neuropathy, diabetic microangiopathy, and diabetic peripheral neuropathy. It is recommended that patients seek medical attention promptly and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a physician, tailored to the specific cause. Details are as follows:

1. Improper Diet

   An improper diet in diabetic patients, such as excessive consumption of high-fiber foods or inadequate fluid intake, can lead to intestinal obstruction. Increasing the intake of dietary fiber, like vegetables and fruits, in the diet can promote intestinal motility.

2. Medication Side Effects

   Certain hypoglycemic drugs may affect intestinal motility, triggering pseudo-obstruction. It is crucial to seek medical attention promptly and discontinue or replace the medication as advised by the physician.

3. Diabetic Autonomic Neuropathy

   Autonomic neuropathy in diabetics can slow intestinal motility, leading to pseudo-obstruction. Managing blood sugar levels, preventing, and delaying its onset, and using medications like Mecobalamin and Epalrestat as prescribed can help.

4. Diabetic Microangiopathy

   Microangiopathy in diabetics may cause inadequate blood supply to the intestines, affecting intestinal function and leading to pseudo-obstruction. Actively managing blood sugar levels and using medications like Beraprost Sodium and Cilostazol as prescribed are recommended.

5. Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

   Peripheral neuropathy in diabetics can lead to uncoordinated muscle movements in the intestines, triggering pseudo-obstruction. Medications like Mecobalamin and Epalrestat can be prescribed to improve symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.

Diabetics should adhere to a low-sugar, low-fat, high-fiber diet, avoiding high-sugar, high-fat, and high-calorie foods like candies, chocolates, and fried foods. Engaging in moderate exercise like walking, jogging, or swimming can help reduce weight, improve metabolism, and control blood sugar levels. Regular self-monitoring, including blood sugar level checks, and adhering to medication schedules as prescribed by the physician are also essential.