Dumping Syndrome – Symptoms and Causes
Dumping syndrome occurs when food moves too quickly from the stomach to the small intestine after eating, causing a range of unpleasant symptoms.
This condition most commonly follows stomach or esophagus surgery, particularly procedures such as weight-loss surgery or partial stomach removal.
However, it can also occur in individuals who haven’t had surgery, a condition known as “non-surgical” or “spontaneous” dumping syndrome, which is less common.
Types of Dumping Syndrome
Dumping syndrome is divided into two types, based on when symptoms occur:
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Early Dumping Syndrome (10 to 30 minutes after eating):
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloating and cramping
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness and fatigue
- Flushing and sweating
- Rapid heartbeat
-
Late Dumping Syndrome (1 to 3 hours after eating):
- Weakness and shakiness
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Rapid drop in blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia)
The symptoms occur because the small intestine rapidly absorbs sugar, causing a sudden increase in blood sugar levels followed by a quick drop. This imbalance can leave you feeling weak, dizzy, and shaky.
Causes
The exact cause of dumping syndrome is not fully understood. However, it is thought to be related to changes in the digestive system following surgery that alter how food moves from the stomach to the intestines.
High-sugar foods are a common trigger for symptoms.
Treatment and Management
Most cases of dumping syndrome can be managed through dietary changes, including:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day
- Limiting high-sugar foods
- Spacing out solid foods and liquids during meals
In more severe cases, medications or additional surgical procedures may be necessary. Making these adjustments helps many people effectively manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.
