Dumping syndrome

Overview

Early dumping causes cramps, nausea, diarrhea, sweating, and a racing heart.

Late dumping causes shakiness, sweating, and weakness from a blood sugar drop.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Cramps or diarrhea soon after eating

Less common

• Dizziness or racing heart after meals
• Shaky or sweaty hours after eating

When to get medical care

Causes

Stomach or weight-loss surgery.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Gastric bypass
• Stomach surgery

Possible complications

• Low blood sugar

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on symptoms after surgery.

Questions you may be asked

• What you eat and when symptoms start

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Blood sugar test: After a sugary drink.

Treatment

Eat in a way that slows digestion.

Self-care

• Eat 6 small meals a day
• Avoid sugary foods and drinks
• Drink fluids 30 minutes before or after meals, not with them
• Choose protein, fiber, and complex carbs
• Lie down 15 minutes after eating if it helps

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent symptoms:

• Small meals
• Avoid sweets

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Usually improves with diet changes.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Should I see a dietitian?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Dumping syndrome