Stomach Discomfort: Causes of Hunger and Slow Digestion

Feeling uncomfortable both on an empty stomach and after meals?

Hello, doctor! Recently, I've been experiencing discomfort or pain in my stomach whenever I feel hungry or when my stomach is empty.
However, after eating, it seems like my stomach is digesting very slowly or not digesting at all, and I have a sensation of blockage as if food is stuck.
What could be the issue? Additionally, I've noticed something strange lately: when I drink unsweetened herbal tea or oolong tea, I suddenly feel very hungry, to the point of discomfort, and I have to eat something to alleviate this discomfort.
What could be the cause of this? Thank you!

Miss Zheng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/15

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

There may be gastritis or ulcers; if necessary, an endoscopy should be performed, along with dietary adjustments.

Reply Date: 2021/08/15

More Info

Understanding stomach discomfort, particularly in relation to hunger and slow digestion, can be complex and multifactorial. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing symptoms that could be associated with several gastrointestinal issues, including delayed gastric emptying, gastritis, or even functional dyspepsia.

Firstly, the sensation of discomfort or pain when you feel hungry could be attributed to increased gastric acid secretion in anticipation of food intake. When the stomach is empty, the acid can irritate the gastric lining, leading to discomfort. This is often referred to as "hunger pangs." If you have underlying gastritis or inflammation of the stomach lining, this discomfort can be exacerbated.

The feeling of food being "stuck" or a sensation of blockage after eating could indicate delayed gastric emptying, also known as gastroparesis. This condition can result in the stomach taking longer to process food, leading to a feeling of fullness or bloating even after consuming small amounts. Symptoms of gastroparesis can include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, particularly after meals. It can be caused by various factors, including diabetes, certain medications, or even stress and anxiety.

Regarding your observation that drinking unsweetened tea leads to a rapid onset of hunger, this could be due to several reasons. Caffeine, present in many teas, can stimulate gastric acid secretion, which may lead to increased hunger sensations. Additionally, the act of drinking could trigger gastric motility, prompting the stomach to signal hunger even if it has not been a significant amount of time since your last meal.

It's also worth noting that emotional and psychological factors can significantly impact gastrointestinal function. Stress and anxiety can lead to changes in appetite and digestion, often resulting in symptoms like bloating, discomfort, and altered hunger cues. This connection between the gut and brain is well-documented, and conditions such as anxiety or depression can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms.

Given your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can conduct a thorough evaluation. This may include a physical examination, a review of your medical history, and possibly diagnostic tests such as an upper endoscopy or gastric emptying study to assess the function of your stomach.
In the meantime, consider keeping a food diary to track what you eat and how it correlates with your symptoms. This can help identify any specific triggers or patterns that may be contributing to your discomfort. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and avoiding known irritants (such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol) may help alleviate some of your symptoms.

In summary, your symptoms could be indicative of several gastrointestinal issues, including gastritis, delayed gastric emptying, or functional dyspepsia. It is essential to seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

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