Reduced Appetite: Possible Causes and Concerns - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Reduced Appetite: Possible Causes and Concerns

Hello： It was mentioned that after bowel movements, the abdomen feels somewhat more comfortable. <br>It is important to first address the issues of fecal impaction and constipation, as these factors can affect appetite and may even lead to symptoms of abdominal bloating and disco

Decreased appetite?

On the morning of June 22, I suddenly experienced a dull pain in my entire abdomen before breakfast.
After a while, the pain eased a bit, and I managed to eat breakfast.
For the next few days, I felt very bloated in my abdomen, sometimes experiencing pain and nausea (I vomited once during this period).
I skipped a few meals, and when I did eat, I consumed less than usual.
Around June 24, I took Wakamoto, and that day I finally had a bowel movement (if I remember correctly, it was diarrhea).
After that, I felt much better, and the bloating subsided.
However, I noticed that for the past 2 to 3 weeks, my appetite has not returned to normal.
Often, I feel full or even nauseous before finishing a meal that I used to complete easily.
The amount I used to eat in one meal now seems to require two meals to finish (although I recall a few instances where I could eat as much as before).
Two days ago, I had about half of my usual lunch portion and felt full until dinner.
After eating about three-quarters of my usual dinner portion, I felt overwhelmed and remained full until the next morning.
The next morning, before breakfast, I experienced dry heaving, and when I had just a little left to eat, I suddenly felt nauseous and couldn't finish.
At lunch, I still felt a bit bloated but managed to eat a bowl of rice with some meat and a bowl of soup, which left me only slightly bloated.
For dinner, I had seven dumplings and a kiwi, and I didn't feel particularly uncomfortable.
Today, after finishing breakfast, I felt fine, but after lying down to sleep, I woke up feeling a bit uncomfortable with a slightly sour taste in my mouth.
Additionally, I've noticed that I have to chew my food for a long time before swallowing.
My bowel movement frequency is low, usually occurring every 4 to 8 days.
The last one was the night before last; it started off somewhat constipated but later was soft yet formed.
Even after using the restroom, the bloating sensation did not go away.
I also seem to have a protruding stomach; my upper abdomen is distended, and tightening my abdomen doesn't seem to help much.
Sometimes I experience a bit of pain, but when I lie down, my stomach flattens.
My recent sleep schedule has been chaotic, often going to bed around 1 to 2 AM and waking up at 8 to 9 AM, sometimes napping until noon, and occasionally skipping meals.
I've lost about 2 to 3 kilograms in the past 2 to 3 weeks.
A few days ago, I had a dry cough with a very itchy throat and some phlegm, but it only happened twice.

I would like to ask the doctor: Why has my appetite decreased? It has been 2 to 3 weeks since that incident, and I thought I would have recovered by now, yet I still feel uncomfortable at times or can't eat much.
I'm also worried about the weight loss...
(I've looked online and found various types of cancer, which is quite alarming.
Could it really be that?)

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/10

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: It was mentioned that after bowel movements, the abdomen feels somewhat more comfortable.
It is important to first address the issues of fecal impaction and constipation, as these factors can affect appetite and may even lead to symptoms of abdominal bloating and discomfort.
You may consider consulting a gastroenterologist for medication adjustments.
Additionally, increasing your intake of fluids and fruits and vegetables may help improve the situation.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2021/07/10

More Info

Understanding reduced appetite can be a complex issue, as it can stem from a variety of causes ranging from physical to psychological factors. Based on your description, it seems you have experienced a significant change in your appetite and digestive health over the past few weeks, which has understandably raised concerns.

Firstly, the acute abdominal pain and bloating you experienced initially could be attributed to several gastrointestinal issues, such as gastritis, gastroenteritis, or even a mild case of food poisoning. The fact that you experienced nausea and vomiting, along with changes in bowel habits, suggests that your digestive system was under some distress. The use of Wakamoto, which is a probiotic supplement, may have helped restore some balance to your gut flora, leading to improved bowel movements.

However, the ongoing reduction in appetite and the sensation of fullness after eating small amounts of food could indicate several underlying issues. One possibility is that your gastrointestinal tract is still recovering from the initial episode, which can lead to temporary changes in motility and digestion. Stress and anxiety can also play a significant role in appetite regulation. If you have been experiencing emotional stress or anxiety, this could contribute to your reduced appetite and feelings of fullness.

Another important aspect to consider is your sleep patterns and overall lifestyle. Disrupted sleep can affect your metabolism and appetite hormones, leading to changes in how hungry you feel. Additionally, irregular eating habits, such as skipping meals or eating at odd hours, can confuse your body’s hunger signals, further complicating your appetite.

Weight loss of 2-3 kilograms over a few weeks, especially in the context of reduced food intake, is a concern that should not be overlooked. While it is common to lose weight during periods of illness or stress, significant or rapid weight loss can lead to nutritional deficiencies and other health issues. It is essential to monitor your weight and ensure you are getting adequate nutrition, even if your appetite is diminished.

The symptoms you describe, such as the sensation of needing to chew food longer and the occasional dry cough, could also be related to anxiety or stress. Anxiety can manifest in physical symptoms, including gastrointestinal discomfort and changes in appetite. If you find that your symptoms persist or worsen, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a thorough evaluation and possibly recommend tests to rule out any serious conditions.

In terms of your concerns about serious illnesses, it is important to remember that while the internet can provide a wealth of information, it can also lead to unnecessary anxiety. Many gastrointestinal issues are benign and resolve with time and appropriate care. However, if you are experiencing persistent symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform necessary evaluations, such as blood tests or imaging studies, to rule out more serious conditions.

In summary, your reduced appetite could be due to a combination of factors, including recovery from an acute gastrointestinal issue, stress or anxiety, and disrupted eating patterns. It is essential to maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and seek medical advice if your symptoms do not improve or if you have further concerns about your health. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider can help ensure that any underlying issues are addressed and managed appropriately.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Anorexia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

1. Sudden loss of appetite (significant decrease in food intake) 2. Weight loss 3. Increased feelings of fullness

Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Symptoms such as loss of appetite, weight loss, and abdominal bloating in young individuals should raise concern for the following potential causes: 1. Mental health disorders, such as anorexia nervosa. 2. Thyroid dysfunction, among others. If there are any doubts, it is advisabl...

Understanding Appetite Changes: Why Is My Food Intake Decreasing?

I started having difficulty eating lunch since mid-July, and now my evening food intake has also decreased by half. I used to weigh 120 kg, and now I weigh 115 kg.

Dr. Tang Weili reply Nutrition
Mr. Jiang: Hello, based on your weight, it seems that your usual food intake might be on the higher side. How long have you been at this weight? Have you participated in any health check-ups? For the sake of long-term health, you should actively manage your food intake, increase ...

Understanding Loss of Appetite: Insights for Busy Professionals

Hello Dr. Tsai, I am a busy working professional who has been drinking alcohol for many years. For the past six months, I have been experiencing a loss of appetite, and alcohol has become difficult to consume. I often feel nauseous, and around noon, I experience continuous rumbli...

Dr. Cai Yaozhou reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
The term "appetite" refers to the physiological need to eat. When this need diminishes or even disappears, it is referred to as loss of appetite. Simply put, it means a lack of desire to eat. So, who is more likely to experience loss of appetite? Generally, office worke...

Unexplained Weight Loss and Poor Appetite: What Could It Mean?

I have been experiencing weight loss over the past few months and my appetite has not been very good, but I don't feel any other abnormalities in my body. My weight has been fluctuating between 40 to 42 kg, and I am worried it will continue to decrease, especially since I lo...

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Based on your description of weight loss, if there has been no specific dietary control or exercise for weight reduction, it is important to consider potential issues related to the endocrine system, gastrointestinal system, infectious diseases, or cancer, among others. It...