Bloating and Poor Appetite: Is It Indigestion? - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Bloating and Poor Appetite: Is It Indigestion?

Hello： If there is no significant weight gain but noticeable abdominal protrusion, it may be necessary to consider whether there is bloating or retained stool, or if it is caused by poor posture. <br>It is recommended to increase fluid intake, enhance fiber consumption, engage in

Is it indigestion?

Hello Doctor: Recently, I feel like I've gained weight, but my scale shows I've lost a little, and my body fat has decreased slightly.
However, my stomach and abdomen are noticeably protruding.
Even when I haven't eaten or have eaten very little, I still feel a lack of appetite, don't feel hungry, and feel bloated after eating just a little.
If I eat more, I sometimes feel nauseous.
My upper abdomen protrudes to the point where when I sit, my body can't sit up straight, and the flesh seems to bunch together, which is very uncomfortable.
PS: I'm not overweight; I am 162 cm tall and weigh 45 kg (recently 43 kg).
Could this be indigestion? What should I eat or do? Thank you, Doctor~

Ya Ya, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/20

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: If there is no significant weight gain but noticeable abdominal protrusion, it may be necessary to consider whether there is bloating or retained stool, or if it is caused by poor posture.
It is recommended to increase fluid intake, enhance fiber consumption, engage in moderate exercise, establish a daily bowel movement routine, and adjust sitting posture to see if there is improvement.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2015/11/20

More Info

Bloating and poor appetite can indeed be indicative of various gastrointestinal issues, including indigestion, but they can also stem from other underlying conditions. Your symptoms of abdominal distension, decreased appetite, and feelings of nausea after eating are concerning and warrant a thorough evaluation.

Firstly, let's discuss what bloating is. Bloating is often described as a feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including the accumulation of gas in the digestive tract, fluid retention, or even the presence of food that is not being digested properly. In your case, the fact that you are experiencing these symptoms despite a decrease in weight and body fat suggests that the issue may not be related to excess body weight but rather to how your body is processing food.

Indigestion, or dyspepsia, is a common cause of bloating and can manifest as discomfort in the upper abdomen, a feeling of fullness after eating, and nausea. It can be triggered by various factors, including dietary choices, stress, and underlying gastrointestinal conditions. Given that you mentioned feeling full even after eating very little, this could indeed be a sign of indigestion.

Another possibility to consider is gastrointestinal motility disorders, where the movement of food through the digestive tract is impaired. Conditions such as gastroparesis, where the stomach takes too long to empty its contents, can lead to similar symptoms. Additionally, food intolerances or allergies, such as lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity, could also be contributing to your bloating and discomfort.

To address your symptoms, here are some recommendations:
1. Dietary Modifications: Start by keeping a food diary to track what you eat and how it affects your symptoms. This can help identify any specific foods that may be triggering your bloating. Consider eliminating common culprits such as dairy, gluten, and high-fiber foods temporarily to see if your symptoms improve.

2. Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Instead of three large meals, try eating smaller portions more frequently throughout the day. This can help reduce the feeling of fullness and make digestion easier.

3. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Sometimes, dehydration can lead to digestive issues, including constipation, which can exacerbate bloating.

4. Physical Activity: Gentle exercise, such as walking or yoga, can help stimulate digestion and reduce bloating. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.

5. Stress Management: Stress can significantly impact digestion. Consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness into your daily routine.

6. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given your symptoms and the fact that they have persisted, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend tests such as blood work, imaging studies, or endoscopy to rule out any underlying conditions.

In summary, while your symptoms may suggest indigestion, it is crucial to consider a comprehensive approach to identify the root cause. By making dietary changes, monitoring your symptoms, and seeking medical advice, you can work towards alleviating your discomfort and improving your overall digestive health.

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