Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Weight Loss and Pain

Q: Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Weight Loss and Pain

Hello： You may have gastrointestinal issues, possibly gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or an ulcer. <br>It is recommended to undergo further examination with an endoscopy. <br>Additionally, significant weight loss is defined as a decrease of 10% of your original

Gastrointestinal issues consultation~

Recently, I went to the emergency room due to stomach pain (accompanied by cold sweats, but no fever).
After measuring my temperature, blood tests, and X-rays, all the results came back normal.
I was given a painkiller, and while waiting for the reports, the pain slightly eased, and my complexion improved significantly.

Prior to the stomach pain, I had been experiencing cold symptoms for about 5 to 6 days (runny nose, cough, and excessive straining that affected my stomach, without fever, and some neck stiffness with headaches).
On the morning I went to the emergency room, I felt that my cold symptoms were improving, so I ate a larger breakfast, including a sizable sticky rice ball and some brown rice pork rib porridge.
While eating the porridge, I began to feel discomfort in my stomach, which escalated to unbearable pain by around 5 PM, prompting me to seek emergency care.

Additionally, I have noticed a more pronounced burning sensation in my esophagus and throat when lying down at night, which makes me cough (with a small amount of white, sticky mucus).
Consequently, I have been controlling my diet, mainly consuming toast, meat buns, steamed buns, and plain rice with some vegetables.
In short, my food intake has significantly decreased, and I have been more selective about what I eat.
I also avoid snacks before bedtime.
Although I have felt much better over the past couple of days, I still sense that my gastrointestinal system is somewhat off, which I wonder might be psychological.
Regarding bowel movements, I usually have smooth digestion, with well-formed stools that are quickly resolved (except when consuming spoiled food).
Since my visit to the emergency room, my stool volume has been smaller due to reduced food intake, but today it returned to being quick and well-formed.
However, I have noticed a weight loss of about 3 kilograms.
Although my appetite is fine, and I feel like eating everything (while still avoiding certain foods), I am puzzled by this weight loss.

For context, I am considered overweight, and my weight has typically remained stable without sudden drops.
In the past, I would only lose weight gradually through regular brisk walking, but this time I have been ill, without any special exercise, and only controlling my diet.
This 3-kilogram loss has left me somewhat confused.
Thank you.

Xiansheng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/19

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: You may have gastrointestinal issues, possibly gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or an ulcer.
It is recommended to undergo further examination with an endoscopy.
Additionally, significant weight loss is defined as a decrease of 10% of your original weight within 6 months, or a rapid loss of 5% within 1 month.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2020/11/19

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a complex set of gastrointestinal symptoms, including abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and unintended weight loss. These symptoms can be concerning, especially when they occur after a recent illness and dietary changes. Let's break down your situation and explore the potential underlying issues.

Firstly, the abdominal pain you described, particularly after eating certain foods, could be indicative of several gastrointestinal conditions. Given that you recently experienced a cold and then developed gastrointestinal symptoms, it's possible that your body is still recovering from the illness. Stress and anxiety, especially related to health concerns, can also exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms, leading to discomfort and changes in bowel habits.

The fact that you experienced a significant weight loss of about 3 kilograms (approximately 6.6 pounds) in a short period is noteworthy. While some weight loss can be expected during an illness, especially if your appetite decreases or if you are eating less than usual, a sudden drop in weight can also signal other underlying issues. In your case, since you mentioned that your appetite is still intact and you are eager to eat, this weight loss could be attributed to a few factors:
1. Dietary Changes: You mentioned that you have been controlling your diet and avoiding certain foods. If you have significantly reduced your caloric intake, even if you are eating healthy foods, this could lead to weight loss. It's essential to ensure that you are consuming enough calories to meet your body's needs, especially if you are recovering from an illness.

2. Gastrointestinal Function: Your gastrointestinal tract may still be sensitive following your recent illness. If your body is not absorbing nutrients effectively due to inflammation or other factors, this could contribute to weight loss. Conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, or even functional gastrointestinal disorders can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.

3. Psychological Factors: Stress and anxiety can have a significant impact on gastrointestinal health. If you are feeling anxious about your health, this could lead to changes in your eating patterns and gastrointestinal function, potentially contributing to weight loss.

4. Underlying Conditions: Although your recent tests (blood work, X-rays) did not indicate any severe issues, it may still be worth considering further evaluation if your symptoms persist. Conditions such as hyperthyroidism, malabsorption syndromes, or even gastrointestinal infections can lead to weight loss and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Given your situation, here are some recommendations:
- Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any dietary changes. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

- Consult a Gastroenterologist: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation. They may recommend additional tests, such as an endoscopy or imaging studies, to assess your gastrointestinal health more thoroughly.

- Nutritional Assessment: Consider consulting a registered dietitian who can help you ensure that you are meeting your nutritional needs while managing your symptoms. They can provide guidance on how to maintain a balanced diet that supports your recovery.

- Stress Management: Since psychological factors can influence gastrointestinal health, consider incorporating stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or gentle exercise into your routine.

In conclusion, while some weight loss can be expected during illness, significant or unexplained weight loss should be evaluated further. Your symptoms may be related to a combination of dietary changes, gastrointestinal sensitivity, and psychological factors. Seeking professional guidance will help you navigate these challenges and support your recovery.

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