Diabetic stomach pain can be caused by a number of complications, especially in patients who cannot control their blood sugar levels. Gastroparesis defines a condition when the stomach holds food for too long, leading to diabetic stomach pain in some patients. Diabetic ketoacidosis refers to a metabolic disorder in type one diabetics that can cause stomach pain. Some patients suffering from diabetes stomach pain suffer from a central nervous system disorder of the intestinal nerves, which is more common in people with long-standing diabetes.
Gastroparesis can cause diabetes, stomach pain from high blood sugar levels over a long period of time. This condition occurs because food does not pass from the stomach properly, causing vomiting, nausea, and abdominal pain. Patients who also have gastroesophageal reflux disease may experience frequent episodes of heartburn and gastroparesis. Treatment for this form of diabetic stomach pain might include eating smaller meals more frequently and avoiding fatty foods and a high-fiber diet, which appear to aggravate the condition.
Some doctors prescribe a liquid diet for this condition to rest the intestinal tract. Medications that help the stomach empty faster can also be effective, but some of these medications have bothersome side effects. In some cases, a gastric pacemaker to regulate activity in the stomach may help.
Another complication that leads to diabetes stomach pain affects the metabolism in some type one diabetics. Diabetic ketoacidosis usually occurs with hypoglycemia when insulin levels are poorly controlled and do not meet the patient's metabolic needs. If left untreated, this condition can lead to brain swelling, coma, and death. Signs of this disorder include stomach pain, vomiting, and nausea. Symptoms of brain swelling, which are more common in children, can include headaches and breathing problems.
Around a quarter of diabetics suffer from diarrhoea, especially those who have lived with the disease for a long time. A nervous system disorder or the rapid movement of fluids through the intestinal tract can cause repeated episodes of loose stools. When the nervous system is at fault, the nerves that control absorption, secretion, or movement of the intestines can malfunction. Depending on the nerves affected, diabetic stomach pain can arise from diarrhea or constipation.
Gastrointestinal problems commonly occur in people with diabetes. They may suffer from peptic ulcers, gallstones or irritable bowel syndrome. Yeast infections typically infect the intestinal tract of diabetics who fail to keep insulin levels stable, leading to stomach pain in some patients.