Considering Enteral Nutrition: Is a Feeding Tube Right for Me?
Hello everyone, I’m a 23-year-old male, standing at 5 feet 1 inch and weighing 101 pounds. I’ve been diagnosed with several conditions including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Bipolar II Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (c-PTSD), Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) mixed type, and rumination syndrome, which causes me to spit up undigested food. In terms of medication, I’m currently prescribed Lamictal, Zoloft, Wellbutrin, Depakote, and Trazodone for my psychological conditions. Additionally, I take Dicyclomine, Promethazine, Prilosec, Sumatriptan, and Emgality for my physical health concerns. Recently, I’ve been experiencing rapid weight loss; since September, I’ve dropped approximately 13 pounds, going from 114 to 101 pounds. While I’m not classified as underweight medically, my unintentional weight reduction has raised some alarms for me. For the past few months, I've had absolutely no appetite, and the only time I feel somewhat hungry is after using cannabis, which I’m hesitant to rely on due to fears of developing a dependency. When I push myself to eat, I often face nausea and ruminating thoughts for about 10 to 15 minutes afterwards. I'm quite selective with food, and I’ve had sensory challenges since childhood that have intensified significantly. Many of my previously safe foods have lost their appeal, which has resulted in episodic hypoglycemia during the night. Recently, I used my mother's Dexcom device for a week and found that my blood sugar levels were often dropping into the low 60s and high 50s range. Though I’ve been working hard to eat, it feels like an impossible task. I find myself often only experiencing "hunger cues" when my blood sugar levels drop. When I set reminders to eat and prepare a meal, I often stare at it, feeling overwhelmed and viewing it as more of a chore than a necessity. Back in 2020, I consulted a gastroenterologist due to severe vomiting and dehydration, undergoing both an endoscopy and colonoscopy. Their findings were minimal, noting only a weak anal sphincter and slight scarring in my esophagus caused by reflux. Currently, my treatment includes nutritional shakes, but they taste metallic to me, and I struggle with their thick texture, often gagging or feeling sick when trying to consume them. I’ve previously used Remeron in hopes it might enhance my appetite, but it didn’t help. Cannabis remains the only effective appetite stimulant, but since I live in Indiana, its legality is questionable, and I prefer not to risk becoming dependent on it given my family history of addiction. I feel as if I’m exhausting all my options while my body continues to let me down, and I continuously battle nausea. My mother, a Qualified Medication Aide (QMA), is accompanying me to my next appointment where we’ll discuss the possibility of a feeding tube, as well as other alternatives. However, I’m uncertain if this is a necessary step or if it feels a bit excessive, especially since I recognize my weight loss but cannot determine the underlying cause. Is a feeding tube critical for my situation? It feels like a significant measure. I have an appointment set for a few weeks from now, but my mother is pushing for an urgent consultation. Would it be acceptable to wait for three weeks? What alternatives do I have?
Answers (1)
2/3/2026, 9:40:45 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel overwhelmed in your situation, especially with the complexities of your medical and psychological history. Given your rapid weight loss and ongoing challenges with appetite and nausea, discussing the possibility of a feeding tube is a valid consideration, but it's essential to weigh the options carefully.
Main Points:
- Consideration of a Feeding Tube: A feeding tube can provide essential nutrition and might be necessary if other methods are insufficient. However, weighing its necessity against your current condition and comfort is crucial.
- Monitoring and Exploration of Alternatives: Prioritize understanding why you’re experiencing these challenges with eating and explore other supportive measures before deciding on a feeding tube.
Explanation:
Your significant weight loss and persistent lack of appetite can have serious health implications, especially when combined with episodes of hypoglycemia. While a feeding tube can help ensure you receive adequate nutrition, it’s also a significant intervention that comes with its own risks and lifestyle changes. It’s essential to evaluate whether other, less invasive options might be possible.
Next Steps:
- Manage Immediate Nutrition: To address your low appetite, consider small and frequent meals or snacks that are easier to digest. Look for options that are nutrient-dense yet low in volume, such as smoothies or yogurt-based drinks.
- Experiment with Different Foods: Since sensory challenges affect your food choices, explore various textures and flavors to find alternatives that are more tolerable. You might also look into foods that are typically well-tolerated, such as bananas, avocados, and soft-cooked grains.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your eating patterns, hunger cues, and blood sugar levels. Note any patterns in nausea or vomiting connected to specific foods or eating times.
- Hydration: Continue to stay hydrated, as dehydration can exacerbate your symptoms. If you struggle to drink water, consider electrolyte solutions or flavored water to support hydration.
- Consultation Preparation: Prepare for your upcoming appointment by listing all your current symptoms, medications, and any recent changes in your health. Discuss these openly with your healthcare provider.
- Discuss Timeframe: While waiting for the appointment in three weeks is acceptable, if your symptoms worsen (e.g., feeling increasingly weak, significant nausea, or deteriorating mental well-being), consider advocating for an earlier consultation.
It’s admirable that you’re exploring your options thoughtfully. You deserve support in navigating these challenges, and open communication with your healthcare providers, including your mother, is vital as you make the best decision for your health.
Related Questions
Exploring HRT Eligibility Concerns
I am a 23-year-old individual assigned female at birth (AFAB) who identifies as a pre-testosterone transman and also works as a registered nurse. My medical history includes conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis, microcytic anemia, depression, generalized anxiety and panic disorder, fibromyalgia, and an unspecified muscle tension disorder that is pending a neurology referral. Additionally, I've experienced episodes of Raynaud’s phenomenon, occasional premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), chest discomfort, and feelings of near-fainting. Currently, I manage my health with a daily regimen of 65 mg of elemental iron and 25 mcg of Synthroid, which help maintain my laboratory results within acceptable limits. I have an upcoming appointment for an ankle-brachial index test this Thursday because I frequently experience cold sensations in my feet, even when wearing compression socks or several layers of clothing. The symptoms of Raynaud's can be quite unpredictable and tend to intensify in colder conditions. Interestingly, I do not observe changes during physical exertion; it can strike while I'm resting, moving, or even when submerged in warm water. Occasionally, I experience numbness and muscle spasms, but I have never dealt with claudication. I'm reaching out to the community for guidance on how my health issues might affect my chances of obtaining testosterone therapy and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) approval. I am aware that high blood pressure can be a disqualifying factor, yet I am uncertain whether my current symptoms are associated with my Hashimoto's or my muscle tension problems. I feel that my symptom profile does not align with the typical signs associated with peripheral artery disease (PAD), but the results of the ankle-brachial index test will provide clarity. What are realistic expectations for me regarding testosterone therapy? Should I prepare myself for a possible denial? I am eager to begin my medical transition, but before discussing this matter with my primary care physician, I would appreciate any insights or advice from others who may have navigated similar experiences.
Concerns Regarding Anesthesia for My 11-Month-Old
Greetings, I'm a 35-year-old man who uses THC vape pens, but I always make sure to do so outdoors. My infant daughter, who is just 11 months old, is scheduled to undergo sedation for a minor procedure. I'm quite anxious and I would appreciate any insights regarding the potential risks associated with her anesthesia in light of my vaping habit, even though I do it outside or in a well-ventilated bathroom. I came across a related question in our pre-procedure questionnaire, which heightened my concerns. What adjustments, if any, might the medical team make if I were to disclose my vaping habits? Additionally, I've been somewhat misleading with my wife; she believes that I only vape occasionally, while the reality is more frequent. I’m overwhelmed with guilt and uncertainty. I would greatly appreciate any guidance or advice you might have. Thank you for your assistance!
Update: Doctor Advises Abrupt Withdrawal from 120mg Cymbalta & 1800mg Lithium
Hello everyone, I’m a 42-year-old male, 5’11” tall, weighing 110 kg, and I lead a lifestyle free of substances like cigarettes and alcohol. Recently, I sought advice on a situation I faced regarding my prescriptions for Cymbalta and Lithium. Now that I'm in the city helping my aunt, I figured it was a good time to provide an update for those who might be interested. Buckle up for a lengthy read! To start off, I'm grateful for the insights shared by many. It was reassuring to realize that my concerns were valid, and it seems that Dr. McDoccy may have been somewhat unqualified, to say the least. I recognize the effort he has likely put into his medical career, but there’s definitely more to consider regarding his capabilities. I truly appreciate everyone's support. Now, let’s dive into the details. A few days after my primary doctor arranged a new prescription, he checked in on my well-being. He called again later just to ensure everything was progressing fine. I candidly expressed that while I might be a bit eccentric, I wouldn’t abruptly halt my medications. He seemed to appreciate my honesty. A day before my follow-up appointment, my doctor rang to brief me on the situation with Dr. McDoccy. He couldn’t share specifics for confidentiality reasons, but assured me that Dr. McDoccy wouldn't be returning. It could range from mild penalties to further training or remedial work for him. He humorously noted that this scenario wasn’t quite like a re-education camp. He mentioned I could eventually find the results of this investigation on a government website, though, amusingly, no one in my community could recall the doctor’s name—regardless, he wouldn’t be coming back. Moving forward, my doctor assured me that he had a say in the selection of the new physician and that his son had discussions with the newcomer about integrating into our community. I teasingly asked if this included guidance on how to avoid unwanted attention from locals, and he jokingly affirmed, saying they even covered the basics of safety. It’s evident that my doctor has a good understanding of our culture, given his son’s reputation as an outstanding police officer in our area. In the interim, we were assigned another doctor for a few visits until the new physician arrived. Initially, this new doctor seemed a bit out of place but was genuinely pleasant. My doctor had arranged for me to be the first patient with him. They took the time to thoroughly evaluate my medical history, as well as the circumstances surrounding Dr. McDoccy’s departure and its impact on my mental health. The local nurse also provided me with an additional supply of my medication, which was a relief. Here’s where the story takes an interesting turn! It turns out that the new doctor, whom I’ve come to call Fit Doc, ended up lodging with a local police officer during his shifts, almost like taking a holiday while working. He shared that he had experience working with Indigenous communities in another part of the country and had always been interested in rural health work. He believed that in order to really assist us, he needed to understand our way of life. During his stay, we had some great interactions—he was keen to learn from us. We showed him how to engage with the elders respectfully and even treated him to authentic meals from our traditions. To my surprise, Fit Doc enjoyed kangaroo tail and seemed to be warming up to goanna as well. He was so intrigued that he believed we feasted on fresh hunt daily until one of the uncles let slip that we were simply clearing out the community store's meat supply! His nickname, Fit Doc, sprouted because several locals noticed his youth, fitness, and overall good looks, inspired by a popular British show some of the kids were hooked on. One Sunday, we decided to take him for a run through our land, a tradition encouraged by our elders to keep us connected to the country and promote physical health. Typically, one of us preps the route by placing markers in the sand, and we then paint ourselves up and run free—as nature intended. Surprisingly, Fit Doc didn't hesitate to join in, even as we stripped down and decorated him with paint. He embraced it with laughter, looking oddly at home amidst our fun. Without sharing the total distance with him, we ensured he had support along the way, but he outpaced everyone. He completed the run far ahead of us, hardly breaking a sweat, leading to laughter and disbelief among my people who had been keeping track of time. He has since been visiting neighboring communities to provide medical care, and it seems he has built a connection with our community that will stay with him even after he eventually leaves. I’ll admit, I enjoy writing—seeing how far I’ve come from my educational background. I was fortunate enough to receive schooling beyond the age of 12 and was among a few who completed high school and pursued further education. My hope in sharing this story is to highlight the positive among the struggles we all face, particularly within medical fields dealing with difficult circumstances. I trust that you’ll appreciate the uplifting moments in our experience. P.S. There’s talk of holding a small gathering to honor Fit Doc's first year with us, and we’re considering a name for him. Some wish to translate "Fit Doc" into our language, while I'm advocating for a name related to a locally cherished plant, symbolizing tenacity. Planning to discreetly run a campaign to vote on this name before his next visit—a bit of fun to solidify our bond with him!
Concerns About Excess Sertraline Intake
Hello everyone, I have a concern regarding my recent dosage of sertraline. I mistakenly consumed 250 mg, which is my first time using this medication. Given that I am only 16, I’m anxious to know if this amount poses any serious risks. I would truly appreciate a prompt response. Thank you!
Inadvertently Consumed a Whole Bottle of MiraLAX
Hello everyone, I'm a 19-year-old female, and I need to share an incident that occurred recently. Yesterday, I went to the doctor with my mother who recommended that I use MiraLAX. I must admit, I wasn’t paying full attention during the visit since my mom usually takes charge of these matters and guides me later on. After our appointment, we picked up a bottle of MiraLAX and returned home where I decided to take a nap. Upon waking, my mother handed me the bottle and instructed me to drink its entire content at once. Trusting her judgment, I complied without hesitation. Now, two hours have passed, and I haven’t experienced any effects yet. I'm curious about what I should expect next, or if there are any measures I can take to mitigate the situation. Just to provide a bit more context, I had some complications a couple of days ago while in the bathroom that led me to visit the doctor in the first place, which adds to my concern about this whole situation.