Your Child's Unusual Symptoms: Taste, Hunger, and Weight Changes

Physical discomfort?

Hello doctor, my daughter has been experiencing a strange taste in her mouth, and I'm not sure if it's due to dryness or some other issue.
She feels hungry in the morning after waking up and also feels hungry four hours after lunch (which wasn't the case before).
She eats three regular meals a day and drinks about 1500 ml of water daily.
There has been a weight fluctuation of 1-2 kg.
What could be going on with her body? Thank you for your help!

Kitty, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/27

Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine

Hello, the issues mentioned above are similar to those in these three articles: https://goo.gl/wb3Ssj, https://goo.gl/Mr0a2n, https://goo.gl/9mwJ3C.

Regarding the content: "Sometimes feeling hungry may be related to gastrointestinal discomfort, including gastritis or peptic ulcers (such as duodenal ulcers that cause pain when fasting).
If there is still gastric discomfort, please consult a gastroenterologist or a family medicine physician for further evaluation."
"Please ensure that your daily caloric intake is sufficient.
Minor fluctuations in weight are generally normal, but if there is a continuous decline, it should be monitored.
The most common cause of weight loss is likely gastrointestinal issues, including gastritis, peptic ulcers, dyspepsia, or malabsorption due to insufficient digestive enzymes from the pancreas.
Next, endocrine issues (such as hyperthyroidism, hyperglycemia, or hypercalcemia) should be considered, followed by potential problems with the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, or chronic infections or inflammation that may also lead to weight loss.
It is advisable to consult a family medicine physician or an endocrinologist for further evaluation."
"Changes in taste should first be assessed for any recent infections or medication use, as these can sometimes cause temporary alterations in taste perception or taste bud function.
Consultation with an otolaryngologist may be warranted."
"If you are feeling hungry frequently, it is important to first confirm whether your nutritional intake is adequate; or seek medical evaluation for blood sugar and other endocrine conditions.
Weight loss should also consider nutritional and endocrine issues, and it is recommended to consult a family medicine physician or an endocrinologist for further evaluation."
Wishing you good health, Dr.
Chen Tai-Cheng from Taoyuan Hospital, Family Medicine Department, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2017/04/27

More Info

When it comes to your daughter's unusual symptoms of a strange taste in her mouth, increased hunger, and slight weight fluctuations, several factors could be at play. Let's break down each of these symptoms and explore potential underlying causes.

1. Strange Taste in the Mouth
A strange taste can arise from various conditions. It could be due to dehydration, especially if she is not drinking enough fluids, or it could be related to oral hygiene issues. If she has recently been ill, certain medications can also alter taste perception. Additionally, infections in the mouth, such as oral thrush or gingivitis, can lead to unusual tastes. It’s essential to ensure she maintains good oral hygiene and consult a healthcare professional if the taste persists or is accompanied by other symptoms like pain or swelling.

2. Increased Hunger
Feeling hungrier than usual can be attributed to several factors. If she is experiencing gastrointestinal issues, such as gastritis or peptic ulcers, this could lead to increased hunger as her body attempts to compensate for discomfort. Additionally, metabolic changes, such as those caused by stress or hormonal fluctuations, can also affect appetite. It’s crucial to assess her overall dietary intake to ensure she is receiving adequate nutrition. If her hunger continues to increase, it may be wise to consult a pediatrician to rule out any underlying health issues, including diabetes or thyroid problems.

3. Weight Fluctuations
A weight change of 1-2 kilograms can be considered normal, especially in children, as their bodies are still growing and developing. However, if the weight change is consistent or accompanied by other symptoms, it could indicate an underlying issue. Weight loss or gain can be influenced by dietary changes, activity levels, and metabolic health. If she is eating normally and staying active, minor fluctuations may not be a cause for concern. However, if you notice a trend of weight loss or if she seems to be losing weight without trying, it would be prudent to seek medical advice.

4. Hydration and Nutrition
You mentioned that she drinks about 1500 ml of water daily, which is generally adequate for a child, but it’s essential to ensure she is also consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains. If her diet lacks essential nutrients, it could lead to increased hunger and other health issues. Consulting a nutritionist may help in creating a meal plan that meets her nutritional needs.

Conclusion
In summary, while some of your daughter's symptoms may be benign and related to normal growth and development, it is essential to monitor her condition closely. If the strange taste persists, her hunger continues to increase, or if you notice significant weight changes, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly some laboratory tests, to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Early intervention can help address any potential issues and ensure your daughter remains healthy and thriving.

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