Could This Be Hypoglycemia? Hunger That Won't Leave
Height: 5'4" | Age: 28 | Sex: Female | Weight: 255 lbs Currently, I'm managing treatment for ankylosing spondylitis with Hadlima and take Vyvanse every morning. Although I'm in remission from atypical anorexia, I've noticed a disturbing trend where I’m eating irregularly—often only one substantial meal per day on challenging days, while striving to reach at least 1000 calories daily. For some time, this wasn’t an issue, but recently, a persistent sensation of starvation has settled in, regardless of my food intake. Accompanying this discomfort are feelings of fatigue and an unsettling sense of dread, which could hint at an underlying health concern. I've been informed that these experiences might align with episodes of low blood sugar, a possibility considering my erratic eating habits over the past months and my tendency to avoid sugary foods altogether. These symptoms have persisted for roughly a week now. Interestingly, I find myself craving beans intensely, which may be linked to my menstrual cycle. I also notice that I feel the urge to sleep continuously. This morning, I struggled to focus on my laptop at work, and my usual coffee didn't provide its typical boost. My wife and cat are both becoming increasingly concerned about my well-being, so I would appreciate insights from anyone who might have an understanding of this situation. Thank you!
Answers (1)
12/16/2025, 10:10:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're facing some challenging symptoms related to your eating habits and overall well-being. The persistent sensation of hunger, fatigue, and difficulty focusing could be interconnected and may relate to your current dietary patterns, medications, or even hormonal changes due to your menstrual cycle. Let's break down what might be happening and the next steps you can take.
Main Points
- Your symptoms may relate to irregular eating patterns and possible low blood sugar.
- It's important to address your nutritional intake to stabilize your energy levels.
- Consider tracking your symptoms and dietary habits for better insight into triggers.
Explanation
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can occur when you don’t eat regularly, especially if you're consuming fewer calories than needed. This can lead to symptoms such as feelings of constant hunger, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. Medications like Vyvanse can also affect appetite and energy levels. Moreover, craving certain foods, like beans, could indicate specific nutritional needs, possibly linked to your dietary changes and menstrual cycle.
Next Steps
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Enhance Your Meal Frequency: Aim to eat smaller, more balanced meals throughout the day instead of just one substantial meal. This can help stabilize your blood sugar levels. Try to include a mix of complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats (e.g., nuts, yogurt, whole grains) in each meal.
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Prioritize Nutrient-Dense Foods: Incorporate foods rich in vitamins and minerals to support overall health, including fiber-rich foods like beans. Aim for a minimum of three meals and a couple of snacks daily to meet your caloric needs and maintain energy levels.
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Stay Hydrated: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Dehydration can exacerbate feelings of fatigue and discomfort.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a daily journal of your food intake and symptoms. This can help you identify patterns and potential triggers, including emotional factors or particular foods that might stabilize or worsen your condition.
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Consider Blood Sugar Monitoring: If possible, you might want to periodically check your blood sugar levels at home, especially when you're experiencing symptoms. This can provide clarity on whether they coincide with changes in your eating habits.
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Assess Medication Impact: Given your concerns about Vyvanse, reflect on whether it may be influencing your appetite and energy levels. Discussing this with your healthcare provider could provide additional options or adjustments.
Supportive Actions
Make sure to communicate openly with your wife regarding how you're feeling, as having emotional support is vital during these times. Additionally, keep in close touch with your healthcare provider about these issues to ensure that you're managing your health holistically.
Make these adjustments gradually, and observe how your body responds. You're not alone in this, and taking proactive steps can help improve your overall comfort and health.
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