Lack of Appetite: Seeking Insights
I'm a 22-year-old trans woman, standing at 5'11" and weighing 165 lbs. My nightly routine includes taking 7.5 mg of mirtazapine, while I also ingest 2 mg of glycopyrrolate twice daily. Additionally, I am dealing with significant anxiety and depression, for which I take 9 mg of Velo several times throughout the day. For the past two days, I’ve been struggling with a complete lack of appetite—this began suddenly when I woke up without any other noticeable symptoms. Now, I find that I fill up quickly even with small portions. This situation is quite frustrating, as it only exacerbates my anxiety, and I've lost almost all interest in food. Occasionally, I might experience fleeting moments where I feel like eating, but these urges vanish rapidly. What could be causing this issue?
Answers (1)
3/24/2025, 12:30:57 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about your sudden lack of appetite, especially considering how frustrating it can be when you're already managing anxiety and depression. The medications you're taking—mirtazapine and glycopyrrolate—can affect appetite, as can the underlying emotional challenges you're facing. Here are some key points to consider regarding your situation:
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Medication Effects: Mirtazapine is known to sometimes increase appetite, but it can have varying effects for different individuals, including a reduction in appetite in some cases, especially when starting or adjusting the dose. Glycopyrrolate can cause dry mouth and digestive issues, which might also contribute to decreased appetite.
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Mental Health Impact: Anxiety and depression can significantly influence your desire to eat. When you're feeling down or anxious, food may feel less appealing, and stress can interfere with normal hunger cues.
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Physical Factors: The sudden nature of your appetite loss could be physiological, influenced by factors like stress, lethargy, or even changes in your daily routine affecting digestion and hunger signals.
Next Steps:
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Self-Monitoring: Keep a simple food diary over the next week. Note what you try to eat, how much, and how you feel before and after meals. This may help identify patterns and give insight into your appetite changes.
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Hydrated Smoothies or Soups: If you're feeling full quickly, consider trying smoothies or soups, which can be easier to consume and more nutritious. Include high-calorie ingredients like nut butters, yogurt, or avocados to increase caloric intake without needing to eat large portions.
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Regular Eating Schedule: Aim for small, regular meals or snacks throughout the day, even if you're not feeling hungry. This can help maintain your energy levels and provide necessary nutrients.
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Relaxation Techniques: Engage in relaxation practices, like meditation or gentle movement, to help manage anxiety and create a more positive state of mind around food.
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Stay Hydrated: Ensure that you're drinking enough fluids, as sometimes dehydration can contribute to a loss of appetite and overall energy levels.
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Monitor Emotional Health: Observe any relationships between your mood and appetite. If your feelings of anxiety or depression worsen, consider adjusting your coping strategies or discussing them with someone who can provide support.
If your appetite does not return or if you experience other concerning symptoms, it’s important to reevaluate your treatment plan with your healthcare provider. They might want to look into your medication adjustments or explore additional therapeutic strategies. Please take care of yourself, and let me know if you have any more questions or need further information!
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