Ongoing Loss of Appetite
Hello everyone, I’m in my early thirties and have been facing persistent digestive issues for several weeks. I’ve noticed a significant reduction in my appetite, almost to the point of feeling no hunger. My stools are often soft, pale, occasionally float, and sometimes contain undigested food particles, such as spinach or eggs. In addition to these issues, I experience pressure in my lower left abdomen, likely around the colon, a white film on my tongue, occasional dizziness, restlessness, and insomnia. Thankfully, I’m not experiencing severe pain, any vomiting, or blood in my stool. Here’s what I’ve undergone so far: – An abdominal MRI focusing on the pancreas showed no abnormalities. – An abdominal ultrasound presented normal findings. – An upper endoscopy revealed only mild redness in the gastric lining; otherwise, everything appeared normal (no Helicobacter infection or ulcers detected). – Blood tests, including liver function and lipase levels, returned normal according to my healthcare provider. – A prior treatment successfully eradicated Helicobacter pylori. – I have also had a stool elastase test done and am currently awaiting the results. The physicians believe I may be dealing with a functional gastrointestinal disorder, such as functional dyspepsia or IBS, possibly accompanied by mild exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and some autonomic nervous system involvement. However, I can’t help but worry that a more serious condition, like a pancreatic tumor, could have been overlooked, despite being assured it’s highly unlikely given my age and normal imaging results. Has anyone else experienced similar symptoms? Do you have any advice regarding mild enzyme deficiencies or functional disorders with these symptoms? I would greatly appreciate any thoughts or shared experiences you might have.
Answers (1)
7/25/2025, 12:10:45 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re navigating through significant digestive challenges, and it’s completely understandable to feel concerned about your symptoms. Persistent loss of appetite, abdominal pressure, and changes in stool can be distressing, especially when combined with unease about potential diagnosis. You're not alone in this, as many people experience similar symptoms related to functional gastrointestinal disorders like IBS.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms may align with functional dyspepsia or IBS, alongside possible mild enzyme deficiencies.
- Managing your digestive health can involve dietary modifications, stress management, and monitoring your symptoms closely.
Explanation:
Given your medical history and the negative results from imaging and tests so far, it's reassuring that serious conditions like pancreatic tumors are unlikely, but your ongoing symptoms are still important to address. Functional gastrointestinal disorders can often lead to decreased appetite and abnormal stool characteristics.
This loss of appetite, along with your abdominal discomfort and changes in stool, could be associated with how your body digests food, especially if there’s a mild enzyme deficiency. Additionally, the symptoms of restlessness and insomnia may indicate that stress or anxiety could also be playing a role in your overall digestive health.
Next Steps:
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Dietary Adjustments:
- Eat Smaller, Frequent Meals: Rather than large meals, try to eat smaller amounts throughout the day to help with digestion and stimulate appetite.
- Focus on Easily Digestible Foods: Consider a diet rich in well-cooked vegetables, lean proteins, and simple carbohydrates to see if this eases your symptoms. You might want to avoid high-fat or spicy foods.
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Hydration:
- Ensure you're drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, especially if your stools are soft. This can also help with digestion.
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Track Your Symptoms:
- Keep a diary of your food intake, symptoms, and stress levels. This can help you identify triggers and understand how your diet and lifestyle impact your digestive health.
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Stress Management:
- Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, which may help alleviate stress that could exacerbate digestive symptoms.
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Follow Up on Stool Elastase Results:
- Once you receive your stool elastase test results, discuss with your healthcare provider how they interpret this in the context of your other symptoms. If there are signs of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, they may recommend enzymes to aid digestion.
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Consider Professional Guidance:
- If symptoms continue or worsen, working with a registered dietitian who specializes in gastrointestinal health might provide tailored solutions to optimize your nutrition and digestion.
Please remember that managing functional digestive issues can take time and may require a combination of strategies. Acknowledging your concerns is important, and focusing on these actionable steps can help you regain a sense of control over your health.
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