Retroperistalsis

Retroperistalsis is a backward movement of food in the digestive tract. It is the opposite of peristalsis, which is the normal downward movement of food from the esophagus to the stomach. Retroperistalsis usually occurs as a precursor to vomiting.

Overview

Retroperistalsis starts from the middle of the small intestine and sweeps up digestive tract contents into the stomach, through the relaxed pyloric sphincter. From here, the abdominal muscles contract and force the stomach contents up the esophagus and out the mouth.

Causes

Retroperistalsis can be triggered by a number of factors, including:

• Gastroenteritis
• Food poisoning
• Pregnancy
• Certain medications
• Alcohol intoxication
• Motion sickness
• Chemotherapy
• Certain medical conditions, such as gastroparesis and bulimia nervosa

Treatment

Treatment for retroperistalsis depends on the underlying cause. In many cases, it may be necessary to treat the symptoms of vomiting, such as by rehydrating the body and using medications to reduce nausea and vomiting. In other cases, it may be necessary to treat the underlying condition causing retroperistalsis.

See also

• Digestive system
• Vomiting
• Peristalsis
• Gastroenteritis
• Food poisoning

References

Retroperistalsis Resources
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