Desperate for Answers: Struggling with Incessant Hunger at 20
Five months ago, my life took a devastating turn. It all started when I indulged in an overwhelming quantity of carbohydrates. At that time, my parents were adamant about ensuring I ate enough since I had been classified as severely overweight. Ironically, I was quite thin due to my heavy involvement in running during that period. After six hours of consuming nothing further, I checked my blood sugar levels, which had spiked to 169 mg/dL. Compelled by an incessant hunger, I ate to my heart's content once more, stemming from the hyperphagia caused by hyperglycemia. My previous experiences with obesity in 2020 made me aware of this phenomenon; however, I’ve managed to remain quite lean over the past two years through proper diet and consistent daily running. Yet soon after eating again, I was struck by confusion, followed by nausea, which led me to vomit a couple of times. I also experienced an intense dry mouth and had to use the restroom excessively, around ten times an hour, for over six hours. That experience was peculiar, but it was only the beginning. From that day forth, I have suffered from relentless and unquenchable hunger, a condition known as hyperphagia. It appears this hunger is unending; no matter what I consume or how much food I take in, I cannot achieve a sense of fullness. I could eat an enormous feast that would satisfy ten ravenous lions combined and still feel unsatisfied. Since this issue arose, my weight has increased by 100 pounds. I used to weigh around 100 pounds at 178 cm height, which I realize was significantly underweight at the time — but that’s not the focus here. I am fully aware of what it means to overeat, and this situation feels entirely different. It’s as if my body has lost the ability to recognize satiety. Strangely, the sensations typically associated with overeating — like bloating, gas, or stomach pain — vanished overnight. One moment I was experiencing these symptoms, and the next, they completely disappeared. I’ve undergone comprehensive blood tests that examined hormones, glucose, and insulin levels, all of which came back normal. This weekend, I have an appointment for a pituitary MRI, but I am honestly terrified. I can’t shake the feeling that I’m dealing with something atypical that won’t show up on scans. I am at a loss. Recently, I considered reaching out to the Undiagnosed Diseases Network, but I discovered they typically don’t take on cases involving subjective symptoms. I’ve even pondered contacting the Endocrine Society, hoping they might connect me with a specialist willing to delve deeper, but I am skeptical about that too. What I truly seek is someone who is willing to investigate my situation thoroughly, although I recognize that finding such help might be improbable. If anyone has suggestions on where I might seek help or know of any resources I could tap into, I would sincerely appreciate it. At just 20 years old, I feel like I am at my breaking point. It’s disheartening when people dismiss my struggles, citing my past obesity and my current weight gain without acknowledging my hard work in maintaining and losing weight. I have repeatedly fluctuated between 145 pounds (my typical weight before this ordeal) and around 130-132 pounds over the past two years, and I am genuinely at a loss for how much longer I can endure this. Any guidance or recommendations would mean the world to me. Could consulting with a neurologist be a potential avenue? I’m not even sure if they handle such issues, but I’m desperate for assistance.
Answers (1)
6/17/2025, 6:10:46 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your experience. It sounds like you are facing a challenging situation with your health and well-being. The sensation of relentless hunger and the significant weight gain can be distressing, especially when you feel you've lost the ability to find satisfaction from food. Here are some key points to consider moving forward:
Main Points:
- Persistent Hunger and Symptoms: Your experience of hyperphagia (persistent hunger) and related symptoms is concerning and warrants thorough investigation.
- Upcoming MRI: You have an MRI scheduled, which is a crucial step in understanding your symptoms, particularly regarding your pituitary gland.
- Seeking Support: Finding the right specialist who will thoroughly investigate your condition is essential.
Explanation:
Hyperphagia can stem from several sources, including hormonal imbalances, psychological factors, or even neurological issues. While your blood tests returned normal results, it’s possible that a more in-depth exploration is required. The fact that you experienced severe fluctuations in hunger and the dramatic changes in your eating patterns suggests that something may still be at play.
Actionable Steps:
-
Prepare for Your MRI: Ensure you have a list of all symptoms, concerns, and any changes you've noticed leading up to the MRI. This information will help your doctor interpret the results accurately.
-
Keep a Symptom Diary: Document your daily food intake, hunger levels, physical activity, and any emotional or psychological distress you experience. This can provide valuable insights for you and any healthcare providers.
-
Consult with a Specialist: In addition to your endocrinologist, consider seeking a referral to a neurologist or a metabolic specialist who may provide a different perspective on your symptoms. Document your concerns about neurological or hormonal effects that might not have been investigated yet.
-
Explore Support Networks: Look for local or online support groups for individuals facing similar issues with eating and weight management. Connecting with others can help alleviate feelings of isolation.
-
Mindfulness and Stress Management: Since emotional factors can contribute to eating behaviors, consider incorporating mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, to help manage stress and improve your relationship with food.
Additional Notes:
It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed, but taking proactive steps to address your symptoms can make a significant difference in your journey. You are not alone in this, and it’s commendable that you’re seeking the help you need. Stay persistent in your search for answers, and prioritize your mental and physical health as you navigate this challenging time.
Please let me know if you need further information or support.
Related Questions
Understanding Hormonal Imbalances: Is it Really PCOS?
Navigating the complexities of my health has been quite challenging, especially given the overlap in symptoms across various conditions. I am seeking clarity on what might be ailing me, even though I am not attempting to self-diagnose. Let me outline some pertinent details: - Age: 25. Gender: Female. Height: 5'1". Weight: 125 lbs. - My most recent menstrual cycle occurred in June 2024. Prior to that, I enjoyed consistent cycles since I was around 12 years old. Typically, I experienced minimal PMS symptoms, with regular bleeding and no major irregularities. - Blood tests conducted multiple times generally indicated normal hormone levels, with the exception of estradiol (which ranged from 10 to 20) and progesterone (remaining below 0.2). - A few markers raised slight concerns for me (though my doctors deemed them normal): My morning cortisol level was 13.4, while the afternoon reading was 9.49. My TSH levels fluctuated, showing 2.35 in one test and then rising to 3.93 a few months later. My fasting glucose has consistently been around 80, with spontaneous glucose readings at 68 and postprandial glucose at 65. - An MRI revealed a "deviation in the pituitary stalk," which may indicate a small pituitary adenoma. - An ultrasound examination displayed "several well-defined oval anechoic structures, exhibiting posterior acoustic enhancement, measuring a few millimeters, and located around the edges of the stroma." - I have been experiencing a range of symptoms including difficulty maintaining sleep (frequently waking, particularly around 3 AM without the ability to return to slumber), persistent fatigue, challenges in weight loss, intense hunger, heightened anxiety, and noticeable hair loss. - I tried birth control (drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol), but it exacerbated almost every symptom. I discontinued use after two weeks, which resulted in a withdrawal bleed. - My lifestyle is generally healthy; I prioritize whole foods and engage in weightlifting and running. Having received a diagnosis of PCOS, I am questioning its validity. If this diagnosis holds true, what steps can I take moving forward, especially since birth control wasn’t beneficial and I appear to have signs suggesting other underlying issues related to thyroid, pituitary, or cortisol function?
Concerns About Cognitive Decline at Age 18
I’d like to share my experience regarding some troubling changes I’m noticing in myself. For as long as I can remember, my memory has been quite poor—some might say it’s a bit ironic. This could be linked to a mild brain injury I sustained in a car crash about a decade ago. Unfortunately, I believe my memory issues are deteriorating further. In recent months, I've become increasingly aware of various troubling symptoms emerging. These include: a declining grasp of my surroundings, a significant memory deficit, vague discomfort in my eyes, difficulties with reading comprehension, challenges in articulating my thoughts and feelings, and an alarming loss of awareness beyond my immediate field of vision. I've also started to experience a resurgence of fear related to darkness and growing unease towards subjects that didn’t bother me for years, such as graphic violence, death, and other unsettling themes. While the cause of these issues is unclear, I'm hypothesizing that excessive screen time, especially scrolling through short videos for hours daily, might be a factor. However, I engaged in similar habits for years before these symptoms emerged, which have surfaced rather abruptly over just the past few months. This rapid progression raises my concerns that it could be something more severe, potentially even early-onset dementia. A couple of years ago, I dealt with intense health anxiety that lasted about a year but seemed to disappear completely until now. Now, I’m recognizing some overlapping symptoms from that period, such as anxiety, eye discomfort, and fears regarding my cognitive abilities. I faintly remember experiencing a fear of the dark then as well, but I had since become quite comfortable in it until recently when those same fears have started to resurface. Interestingly, I’ve also noticed a revival of my childhood sense of wonder, as I find myself enjoying nature and animals more than I have in years. While this should be a positive development, in light of my other symptoms, it feels concerning and suggests that something may be deteriorating within my brain. My sleep patterns have always been problematic, often staying up far too late, but until now, I’ve managed to function cognitively without major concerns. I am aware that insufficient sleep can lead to cognitive issues, yet the speed of my deterioration suggests there could be other underlying causes. I’m feeling as though I’m reverting to a child-like state while my cognitive abilities slip away, and this frightens me. Just as I’m attempting to establish my independence, it feels like it’s all slipping away too quickly. I’m reaching out for insight or help in understanding what’s happening. This situation terrifies me.
Concerns About My Health Journey
At the age of 28, I began experiencing troubling symptoms in November 2025. A persistent dry cough accompanied by a sense of breathlessness made even the slightest physical activity feel overwhelming. After a few weeks of grappling with these issues, I recognized that this was more serious than a typical illness, prompting me to consult a physician who has since recommended a series of diagnostic tests. One significant test administered was a CT scan with contrast. I should mention that I have a history of asthma, which required an inhaler during my early childhood years, though I have only recently resumed its use due to my current symptoms. Additionally, I have dealt with knee arthritis and joint pain that began around the age of 12, continuous migraines dating back even further, and ongoing eczema. Although my doctor suspects an autoimmune condition, the blood test results have yet to provide a clear answer. Regarding my current medications, I am utilizing a Qvar inhaler twice a day, alongside 300 mg of Wellbutrin, 40 mg of Lexapro, and 20 mg of Buspar twice daily. I also take 60 mg of Propranolol, .5 mg of Klonopin as needed, and manage discomfort with Ibuprofen as required. Currently, I rely on supplemental oxygen at 3 liters per minute while at rest, and up to 4 liters per minute when engaging in household activities. I hope that this situation is temporary, but I find myself uncertain about how feasible it is to expect a return to normal breathing without assistance in the future.
(24F) Seeking Clarity on Crepitus Symptoms - Any Guidance?
Hello! I'm feeling quite anxious and could really use some advice. Previously, I shared a post discussing my elevated CRP levels. For several months now, I've been experiencing a strange sensation throughout my upper body that feels like dry leaves crunching or bubbles popping. Although it's silent, the feeling is distinctly present. This started in early 2025 and began with a noticeable urge to stretch my whole body, evolving into a feeling of muscle heaviness and discomfort, culminating in this crepitus whenever I attempt to stretch. It’s felt around my sternum, ribs, spine, shoulders, hips, and occasionally even in my jaw. After I began taking magnesium supplements, the severe heaviness and pain in my upper back significantly decreased by around 80%. Yet, the crepitus remains stubbornly persistent and annoying. It feels as if my muscles haven’t been used in ages or perhaps have air bubbles within them. Whenever I give in to stretching to alleviate the pressure, I experience mild stiffness. In a moment of desperation, I consulted AI for insights regarding my condition. It suggested that systemic inflammation (my CRP is over 10 and decreasing gradually) might lead to a slight thickening of synovial fluid, which could explain the crepitus. On top of this, I also battle fatigue, widespread body aches, and significant anxiety that heightens my awareness of even the slightest sensations in my body. My iron levels are low (Ferritin at 17), and I’m borderline deficient in both B12 and vitamin D. My gastroenterologist informed me that it may take weeks or even months for my gastrointestinal symptoms to improve. My endocrinologist has approved iron supplementation, which I’ve been on for about a month, and is also treating my issues with PCOD and elevated testosterone, while my CRP levels are slowly decreasing. Despite that, my ongoing anxiety, the crepitus, and a general feeling of malaise continue to trouble me. With a move to a new city coming up in 10 days, I’m worried about how that might affect me. I’d like to see a general practitioner, but I’m uncertain about how to approach it. While my ongoing concerns are being addressed, I haven't experienced any clear signs of improvement yet. However, it's only been a month and a half since the treatment for H Pylori and a month since I started all my supplements. Transitioning to a new place and finding a suitable doctor will also take time, and I feel lost regarding what’s happening with my body. Could this be benign? Is it part of the healing journey? Should I wait a few more weeks before consulting my GP or should I share my experience with them right away? I’m feeling quite confused. My parents advise seeking reassurance, but I have apprehensions about this specific GP due to their sarcastic demeanor, though I do trust them. I understand that any doctor would prefer my consultation over ignorance, yet I can’t shake the feeling that I might be overanalyzing everything, as I’ve been told in the past.
Duration of Symptoms Post-Alprazolam Overdose
I apologize for any lack of clarity in my message; I’ve been quite disoriented lately. I also hope I’m posting in the right forum for this discussion. A bit about me: I’m a 22-year-old woman (transgender male, no medical transition) at 5’2” and weighing 181 pounds (82 kg). I’ve been prescribed venlafaxine 75 mg for my depression, oxcarbazepine 150 mg twice a day for mood stabilization, alongside a generic folate supplement, and alprazolam for managing anxiety and panic attacks. Additionally, I'm on Ozempic (semaglutide) for weight management and am currently in week 3 of a 0.25 mg dosage. I used to smoke as a teenager but recently started having cigarettes sporadically after quitting for a while. My overall physical health is mostly unremarkable, although I experience pain while walking. Historically, my vital signs have been stable. I struggle with alcohol dependency when financially able, but I recently broke a sobriety period that lasted for a while. Recently, I consumed an entire bottle of 1 mg Xanax (about 60 mg) and had approximately 11 beers (Cayman Jack, 5.8% alcohol), ultimately passing out before finishing the twelfth. Somehow I survived this experience, but I’m reaching out because I’ve been feeling very unstable, stumbling, and occasionally groaning during activities. There are moments when I lose consciousness entirely—not fainting, but instead feeling a compelling need to lie down and sleep for varying durations, from an hour to as much as six. After going to bed at night, I find myself waking up in the afternoon. I often slur my speech, experience uncontrollable tears, hyperventilate, and swing between a state of emotional emptiness and being overwhelmed by feelings. This is significantly worse than my emotional state prior to my overdose attempt. My mother mentioned that I seem slightly improved today (though she is unaware of my recent actions), and I agree that I’m not as severely affected, but the experience remains intense. I assume the substances are gradually clearing from my system, and I realize it’s unrealistic to expect a rapid return to normalcy following such a critical event. However, I’m curious to know how much longer I might feel this way and when I might regain a sense of normality. To provide some context, I am under the care of a psychiatrist, and I’ve engaged with mental health services since childhood, including multiple hospitalizations for psychiatric reasons, as well as consultations with various therapists and professionals over the years. I am actively seeking help to navigate through this, but I’d like to understand when I might stop experiencing these physical effects. Thank you for taking the time to read my message. I apologize if this topic feels inappropriate for this platform.