Changes in Appetite and Bowel Issues in Teens - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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Dietary Intake and Bowel Issues


I am currently about 17 and a half years old.
About 2 to 3 weeks ago, I experienced abdominal pain, bloating, and nausea for about 3 days.
On the third day, after having a bowel movement (which was diarrhea), I felt better.
However, since then, it seems that my appetite has decreased (I skipped a few meals during those uncomfortable days).
Now, I often feel full before finishing the amount I used to eat, and I sometimes feel bloated for a long time, even until the next meal without feeling hungry.
Occasionally, I feel nauseous but haven't actually vomited, and I have lost about 3 kilograms.
Today, I went to see a doctor.
Since I am under 18, I could only see a pediatrician.
The doctor listened to my main complaint about feeling full after eating less and asked about some details of my lifestyle.
They suggested that my lack of physical activity due to remote learning and not walking during commutes might be affecting me, but remote learning started in mid-May, and I only became aware of this issue in the past few weeks.
My current lifestyle is not much different from before remote learning, and my sleep schedule is still quite regular, except that I don't exercise often.
Sometimes, I skip breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and I have bowel movements about every 4 to 7 days.
Additionally, today, shortly after lunch, I had a bowel movement, but the stool looked a bit strange.
It started as a solid piece, but the latter part was more loose, and the solid piece was an uneven mix of light and dark brown.
When I wiped, the toilet paper had a yellowish liquid on it.
(The last two times, I had normal stool followed by diarrhea.) I would like to ask: (1) Regarding the decreased appetite, many online articles point to cancer.
Although I know I shouldn't fully trust Google and have already seen a doctor, I still want to know what could be the issue.
Is it as serious as Google suggests? (I tend to be health anxious, so I want to understand.) (2) What could be happening with the mixed stool color, the initial solid form followed by loose stool, and the yellowish liquid on the toilet paper?

Nìmíng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/12

Dr. Cai Jinji reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology


Hello Ms.
Anonymous: (1) There are many reasons for a decreased appetite, including metabolism and psychological factors.
It may be advisable to consult other specialties.
(2) Issues with bowel movements can also have various causes.
It is recommended to see a physician to evaluate whether a stool test or other examinations, such as X-rays or blood tests, are necessary.
Director Cai Jin-ji, Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/07/12

More Info


Understanding changes in appetite and bowel issues in teenagers can be complex, especially when considering the various physical and psychological factors that can influence these changes. Based on your description, it seems you have experienced a combination of gastrointestinal symptoms and changes in appetite that have raised concerns for you. Let’s break down your questions and provide some insights.


1. Changes in Appetite
It’s not uncommon for teenagers to experience fluctuations in appetite due to various factors, including stress, lifestyle changes, and physical health. In your case, you mentioned experiencing abdominal pain, bloating, and nausea for a few days, which can significantly affect your appetite. After such gastrointestinal disturbances, it’s typical for individuals to feel less hungry or to feel full more quickly than usual. This can be due to several reasons:
- Gastrointestinal Disturbance: After experiencing diarrhea or any form of gastrointestinal upset, your digestive system may take some time to return to normal function. This can lead to temporary changes in appetite and fullness cues.


- Psychological Factors: Stress and anxiety can also play a significant role in appetite regulation. If you are feeling anxious about your health or the changes you are experiencing, this could further suppress your appetite.

- Physical Activity: You mentioned a decrease in physical activity due to remote learning. Regular exercise is known to stimulate appetite, and a lack of it can lead to reduced hunger signals.

While it’s understandable to be concerned about serious conditions like cancer, it’s important to remember that many factors can lead to temporary changes in appetite, especially in adolescents. Your doctor’s assessment is crucial, and if they did not find any alarming signs, it’s likely that your symptoms are not indicative of a severe underlying condition.


2. Bowel Movements and Changes in Stool
The changes in your bowel movements, such as the inconsistency in stool shape and color, can be attributed to several factors:
- Dietary Changes: If you have been skipping meals or eating less, this can affect the consistency and frequency of your bowel movements. A diet low in fiber can lead to harder stools, while a sudden increase in certain foods can lead to looser stools.

- Hydration: Adequate hydration is essential for healthy bowel movements. If you are not drinking enough fluids, this can lead to constipation or changes in stool consistency.

- Gastrointestinal Health: The presence of both formed and loose stools can indicate that your gastrointestinal tract is still recovering from the previous upset. The mixed colors in your stool could be due to the varying contents of your diet or the digestive process itself.

- Yellowish Discharge: The yellow liquid you observed on the toilet paper could be mucus, which can sometimes accompany bowel movements, especially if there is irritation in the intestines. This is not uncommon and can occur with changes in diet or gastrointestinal distress.


Recommendations
Given your symptoms and concerns, here are some steps you can take:
1. Maintain a Balanced Diet: Focus on eating regular, balanced meals that include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. This can help regulate your appetite and improve bowel health.

2. Stay Hydrated: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day, as hydration is key for digestive health.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes in bowel habits, appetite, or weight. If you notice persistent changes or worsening symptoms, follow up with your healthcare provider.

4. Physical Activity: Try to incorporate some form of physical activity into your daily routine, even if it’s just a short walk. Exercise can help stimulate appetite and improve overall well-being.

5. Consult a Specialist: If your symptoms persist or you continue to feel anxious about your health, consider consulting a gastroenterologist for a more thorough evaluation.

In conclusion, while it’s natural to worry about health changes, many factors can contribute to temporary changes in appetite and bowel habits, especially during adolescence. Keeping an open line of communication with your healthcare provider and addressing your concerns can help alleviate anxiety and lead to better health outcomes.

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