Gastrointestinal Issues: Managing Hunger and Discomfort

Gastrointestinal issues

Hello, doctor.
I weigh 48 kg and am 170 cm tall.
Due to work reasons, my sleep schedule is irregular, but I do have a consistent sleep pattern.
About two weeks ago, I started feeling hungry every day.
This hunger is tolerable, and eating provides some sense of fullness (though I still feel hungry).
This week, the hunger sensation has started to decrease, but I have begun experiencing other symptoms.
Sometimes, when I lower my head, I feel dizzy, and I experience nausea when eating.
My weight has decreased (only about 1.5 kg, and it hasn't dropped further), but I do not feel weak or fatigued.
Initially, I suspected diabetes, but after testing my blood sugar, it was normal, and I do not exhibit other symptoms of diabetes.
How can I improve this situation?

Tian, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/07/16

Dr. Hu Guozheng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, I'm not quite clear on what you mean by feeling hungry in your stomach every day.
At what time and under what circumstances does this occur? If you have already sought medical attention, I recommend consulting your attending physician in person for clearer insights and the necessary medical assistance.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2024/07/16

More Info

Managing gastrointestinal issues, particularly those related to hunger and discomfort, requires a comprehensive understanding of the underlying causes and appropriate treatment strategies. Based on your description, it appears that you are experiencing a combination of increased hunger, occasional dizziness, and gastrointestinal discomfort, which can be concerning.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that changes in appetite and gastrointestinal symptoms can be influenced by various factors, including diet, lifestyle, stress levels, and underlying medical conditions. Given your situation, where you have a fluctuating appetite and occasional dizziness, it’s crucial to consider both physiological and psychological aspects.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Dietary Factors: Your weight and height suggest a body mass index (BMI) that is on the lower end of the spectrum. If your diet lacks essential nutrients or is not balanced, it could lead to feelings of hunger despite eating. Additionally, if you are consuming high amounts of simple carbohydrates or sugars, this can lead to rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar, causing increased hunger and potential dizziness.

2. Gastrointestinal Function: The feeling of hunger despite eating could also be related to gastrointestinal motility issues. If your stomach is not emptying properly (a condition known as gastroparesis), it can lead to feelings of fullness or discomfort after eating, while still feeling hungry. This can be exacerbated by stress or anxiety, which can affect gut motility.

3. Psychological Factors: Stress and anxiety can significantly impact your appetite and digestion. If you are under pressure from work or personal life, this could manifest as gastrointestinal discomfort and changes in hunger levels.
4. Hormonal Imbalances: Hormones play a crucial role in regulating appetite. If there are fluctuations in hormones such as ghrelin (the hunger hormone) and leptin (the satiety hormone), it can lead to increased feelings of hunger.

5. Medical Conditions: While you have ruled out diabetes through blood tests, other conditions such as hyperthyroidism, gastrointestinal disorders (like irritable bowel syndrome), or even psychological conditions (like depression or anxiety) could contribute to your symptoms.

Recommendations for Improvement
1. Dietary Adjustments: Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods, including lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid excessive intake of processed foods and sugars. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may help manage hunger and prevent discomfort.

2. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Sometimes, feelings of hunger can be confused with thirst.

3. Regular Meal Schedule: Try to establish a regular eating schedule, even if your work hours are irregular. This can help regulate your appetite and improve digestion.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a food diary to track what you eat and how it affects your hunger and gastrointestinal symptoms. This can help identify any specific triggers.

5. Consult a Specialist: If symptoms persist, consider consulting a gastroenterologist for further evaluation. They may recommend tests such as gastric emptying studies or endoscopy to assess for any underlying conditions.

6. Stress Management: Incorporate stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or regular exercise. These can help improve both your mental and gastrointestinal health.

7. Follow-Up Testing: If dizziness continues, it may be worthwhile to check for other potential causes, such as anemia or electrolyte imbalances, which can also lead to feelings of dizziness and fatigue.

In summary, your symptoms of increased hunger and gastrointestinal discomfort may stem from a combination of dietary habits, stress, and potential gastrointestinal motility issues. By making dietary adjustments, managing stress, and consulting with healthcare professionals, you can work towards alleviating these symptoms and improving your overall health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Causes and Dietary Tips

Hello Doctor, I have a question I would like to ask you. Recently, for the past few weeks, I have been feeling hungry often for no apparent reason. During meals, I do not feel full, and even one or two hours after eating, I feel hungry again. My bowel movements vary from once to ...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, please discuss your health concerns with your gastroenterologist at Changhua Hospital. Best regards, Chen Shidian.

Managing Stomach Issues: Best Foods and Tips for Gastric Health

Hello, I have been suffering from stomach issues for a long time, and recently it has worsened, affecting my mental and physical strength. Sometimes I feel weak while walking, and I have a lack of appetite; just thinking about food suddenly makes me lose my appetite. When I eat, ...

Dr. Zhang Siyuan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
To Kan: The human gastrointestinal system has a potential capacity for digestion and absorption, but it also has its limits and individual differences. As humans are omnivorous, we can consume a wide variety of foods. However, when gastrointestinal disorders occur, the diversity ...

Understanding Digestive Issues: Frequent Hunger, Diarrhea, and Weight Concerns

Hello Doctor, I am a 21-year-old male student. First, I would like to mention that I have an allergic constitution (many doctors have said this). I often experience nasal allergies, such as a runny nose and nasal congestion, and I frequently catch colds for no apparent reason. My...

Dr. Su Baojia reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1. Frequent hunger indicates rapid gastrointestinal digestion or the presence of gastritis. 2. Increased frequency and volume of bowel movements suggest a functional disorder of the colon. 3. Experiencing diarrhea after overeating, drinking milk on an empty stomach, or during per...

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues and Bowel Health Concerns

Hello Doctor: I have many symptoms and I'm not sure where to start. First, regarding my gastrointestinal condition, for the past three to four months, I have been experiencing burping regardless of whether I eat or not. In the morning, after taking a couple of sips of wate...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. It is recommended to undergo an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy based on your gastrointestinal condition, as the symptoms may indicate gastritis or peptic ulcer disease. 2. Currently, parasitic infections are quite rare in the country; your situation may be due to p...