Loss of Appetite and Nausea: Gastrointestinal Issues

Loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting?

Hello, I have had intermittent stomach pain in the past.
Three years ago, I underwent an endoscopy and was diagnosed with mild inflammation.
Recently, I have experienced a poor appetite, feeling full after eating only a small amount.
Since yesterday, I have had a strong feeling of nausea after meals, making it difficult to swallow.
A few hours after lunch, I vomited, and by evening, I felt somewhat weak and continued to have no appetite.
This morning, I only drank a cup of water, but an hour later, I also experienced vomiting.
I do not have any stomach pain, and my bowel movements are normal.
I have not had similar symptoms in the past and would like to know what the possible causes might be.
Additionally, I have been experiencing more intense stomach pain symptoms starting two months ago before my menstrual period, and I am currently approaching my menstrual period, so I am unsure if there is a connection.

T, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/04/12

Dr. Hu Guozheng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, if you have been experiencing similar symptoms for a while, it is recommended to visit a gastroenterology and hepatology clinic for evaluation.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2023/04/12

More Info

Loss of appetite and nausea can be distressing symptoms that often indicate underlying gastrointestinal issues. Given your history of intermittent stomach pain and mild inflammation noted during your previous endoscopy three years ago, it’s essential to consider several potential causes for your current symptoms.

Firstly, the recent onset of loss of appetite and nausea, particularly after eating, could be attributed to several factors. One possibility is the exacerbation of your previous gastric inflammation, which may have progressed to gastritis or even peptic ulcer disease. Gastritis is characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining, which can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness after eating only a small amount. If your stomach lining is irritated, it could explain the strong urge to vomit after meals.

Another consideration is the possibility of functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as functional dyspepsia. This condition can manifest as discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, bloating, and early satiety, which aligns with your experience of feeling full after eating little. Stress and hormonal changes, particularly related to your menstrual cycle, can also exacerbate these symptoms. Many women experience gastrointestinal symptoms related to hormonal fluctuations, especially in the days leading up to their menstrual period.

Additionally, the fact that you have been experiencing increased stomach pain before your menstrual period suggests that there may be a connection between your gastrointestinal symptoms and hormonal changes. Hormones such as prostaglandins, which increase during menstruation, can lead to increased gastric motility and sensitivity, potentially worsening nausea and discomfort.

Given that you have not experienced similar symptoms in the past, it is crucial to monitor your condition closely. The absence of abdominal pain and normal bowel movements are positive signs, but the persistent nausea and vomiting warrant further investigation. It would be advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend additional diagnostic tests, such as an upper endoscopy, to assess the state of your stomach lining and rule out any serious conditions, including ulcers or malignancies.

In the meantime, consider making some dietary adjustments to help manage your symptoms. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce the feeling of fullness and nausea. Avoiding spicy, fatty, or acidic foods may also alleviate irritation in your stomach. Staying hydrated is essential, but if drinking water leads to vomiting, try sipping small amounts slowly.

In summary, your symptoms of loss of appetite and nausea could be linked to a variety of gastrointestinal issues, including gastritis, functional dyspepsia, or hormonal influences related to your menstrual cycle. It is essential to seek medical advice to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Keeping a symptom diary, noting what you eat and how you feel, can also provide valuable information for your healthcare provider.

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