dumping syndrome

dumping syndrome [ME, dumpen, to throw down] , the combination of profuse sweating, nausea, dizziness, and weakness experienced by patients who have had a subtotal gastrectomy. Symptoms are felt soon after eating, when the contents of the stomach empty too rapidly into the duodenum. The entrance of this hypertonic material into the small intestine causes fluid to shift into the intestine via osmosis. This increased volume causes peristalsis and diarrhea. The loss of fluid from capillaries causes hypotension with resulting weakness and dizziness. A high-protein, high-calorie diet, with small, dry meals taken frequently, should prevent discomfort and ensure adequate nutrition. See also gastrectomy.