Eating Difficulties and Possible Causes
Hello, everyone! I’m reaching out because I’m experiencing some concerning difficulties with my eating habits, and I’m unsure of what might be the underlying cause. Unfortunately, I can’t see my usual doctor until May, so I’d appreciate any insights you might have that I can discuss with her when I do meet. I’m a 19-year-old female, weighing 280 pounds and standing at 5 feet 6 inches. Recently, I’ve noticed a troubling pattern regarding my ability to eat. I suspect that it might be linked to anxiety in some way, although I am not certain, as I’m not a medical professional. Since I was around 8 years old, I’ve dealt with a strange predicament where feelings of nervousness or excitement prevent me from eating or lead to vomiting. In the past, this was something that only affected me in specific situations like a sleepover with new acquaintances or visits to places like Disney World. However, things have escalated lately. I can be in the midst of a meal, consuming foods I’ve eaten many times before, surrounded by trusted people, and suddenly, I’m struck by intense nausea, a sense of dread, and almost an existential crisis. This is not just psychological—there have been eight instances in the last few months where I’ve experienced these feelings, and I’ve actually thrown up four times. The most recent incident occurred while I was enjoying a McDonald's burger; I suddenly felt nauseous and completely overwhelmed, sweating and unable to keep the food down. Just the day before, I tried to eat a small portion of ramen and encountered the same issue, forcing me to spit it out and discard the food entirely. Does anyone have an idea about what might be causing this? As a child, I was diagnosed with stomach acid problems and asthma, which I was told I eventually outgrew. I am not diabetic or facing any similar conditions. Currently, the only medical issue I contend with is an underactive thyroid. Outside of these eating episodes, I typically feel fine. It’s also worth noting that these episodes can occur with various types of food, not just fast food. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated! :')
Answers (1)
2/4/2026, 12:10:44 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant distress with your eating habits, particularly linked to feelings of anxiety and nausea. It's understandable to feel worried about these episodes, especially given their frequency and intensity. Let’s break this down to help you better understand what might be happening and what you can do in the meantime.
Main Points:
- Your eating difficulties, particularly the nausea and vomiting in response to certain situations, may be related to anxiety, a heightened stress response, or even a potential gastrointestinal condition.
- Immediate self-care strategies can help manage your symptoms while you wait to see your doctor.
Explanation:
Given your history of anxiety during childhood, it’s possible that these experiences are resurfacing or evolving into a more generalized response, leading to nausea and vomiting during meals. Stress and anxiety can trigger physical responses in our bodies, which seem to manifest for you during mealtime, regardless of the food type or setting.
Your history of stomach acid issues and current thyroid condition might also contribute to gastrointestinal sensitivity. However, your episodes could primarily be psychological, particularly if they relate to anxiety.
Next Steps:
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Keep a Food and Mood Diary: Start noting what you eat, when these episodes occur, your emotional state before eating, and any other relevant factors. This will help identify specific triggers and provide insight for your upcoming consultation.
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Practice Mindfulness Techniques: Explore relaxation strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga before meals to help manage anxiety levels and create a calmer eating environment.
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Small, Frequent Meals: Try eating smaller quantities more often rather than larger meals. This can sometimes help reduce the pressure and anxiety around eating.
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Avoid Known Triggers: If specific situations (like certain restaurants or foods) increase your anxiety, it may be helpful to temporarily avoid them while you focus on managing symptoms.
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Stay Hydrated: Make sure you're drinking enough fluids, especially if you're having difficulties with solid foods. Smoothies or broths can be easier to handle and nutritionally beneficial.
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Seek Support: Share your experiences with trusted friends or family. Discussing your feelings might alleviate some of the pressure you feel around mealtime.
Remember that implementing self-care isn't a substitute for professional advice, but these steps may help you navigate your eating difficulties until you can consult your doctor. Your well-being is important, and taking these proactive steps may help you feel more in control. Please reach out if you have any more questions or need further support!
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