Concerns About Low Appetite and Weight Gain

Question #24176

45 days ago

123

Concerns About Low Appetite and Weight Gain - #24176

Client_5669bd

Olá, Sou mulher, tenho 20 anos, meço 1,53m e peso cerca de 35kg há alguns anos, sempre fui demasiado magra e tive pressão baixa. Estou bastante abaixo do peso e tento ganhar peso há muito tempo, mas quase não consigo comer, sinto falta de apetite e parece que sinto nojo da comida e ansiedade em comer, mas eu tenho noção que estou muito magra. Ultimamente ando com muita fraqueza e dores de cabeça, e sinto que o meu corpo já não está bem. Tenho medo de ir ao hospital sem perceber o que me podem fazer para ajudar, especialmente em relação à alimentação A minha pergunta é: Que tipo de abordagem médica é normalmente feita nestes casos? Porque é que será que tenho esta questão com a comida? Agradeço muito qualquer orientação, porque estou preocupada e já não sei como resolver isto sozinha. Obrigada.

How long have you been experiencing a lack of appetite?:

- More than 6 months

Have you noticed any specific triggers that worsen your anxiety around food?:

- No specific triggers

Have you tried any methods to increase your appetite or gain weight?:

- Yes, small frequent meals

300 INR (~3.53 USD)

Question is closed

FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses

Dr. Arsha K Isac

I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.

45 days ago

Hello
In these cases, doctors usually do a complete evaluation (blood tests, blood pressure, hormones, and vitamin levels) to understand the cause of low weight and poor appetite.
They do not force you to eat and hospitalization is not automatic.
Difficulty with food is often linked to anxiety, hormonal changes, or nutritional deficiencies, and sometimes to a restrictive eating pattern.
It is treatable, with medical, nutritional, and, if needed, psychological support.
I trust this helps
Thank you

1215 answered questions

54% best answers

Accepted response

0 replies

Dr. Shayeque Reza

I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.

45 days ago

Based on your height (1.53 m) and weight (35 kg), you are significantly underweight, and the symptoms you describe — very low appetite, nausea or disgust toward food, anxiety around eating, weakness, headaches, and low blood pressure — suggest that this is not just “naturally thin,” but likely a medical and/or psychological nutrition-related issue that needs proper evaluation.
In situations like yours, doctors usually take a supportive, not scary or forceful, approach. They typically start with blood tests (anemia, thyroid, vitamins, electrolytes), weight assessment, and a general physical exam, and may also check for digestive, hormonal, or metabolic causes of poor appetite. At the same time, they often involve a dietitian and sometimes a psychologist or therapist, because appetite loss with anxiety around food can be related to stress, depression, or an eating disorder pattern (even if you don’t intentionally restrict food). Many people develop an unconscious fear or discomfort with eating that reduces hunger signals over time
Treatment usually focuses on gradual weight restoration, not forcing large meals. This may include small frequent meals, high-calorie nutritious drinks, supplements, appetite support, and counseling to help your relationship with food and anxiety. Hospitalization is only needed if someone is medically unstable  most care is outpatient.
Overall, your body is likely under-fueled, which explains the weakness and headaches. Seeking medical help is important and safe doctors are there to help you regain strength, not judge you. Getting professional support is the right next step.

1677 answered questions

58% best answers

Accepted response

0 replies

Dr. Prasannajeet Singh Shekhawat

I am a 2023 batch passout and working as a general physician right now, based in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Still kinda new in the bigger picture maybe, but honestly—every single day in this line teaches you more than textbooks ever could. I’ve had the chance to work under some pretty respected doctors during and after my graduation, not just for the clinical part but also to see how they handle people, real people, in pain, in panic, and sometimes just confused about their own health. General medicine covers a lot, right? Like from the smallest complaints to those random, vague symptoms that no one really understands at first—those are kinda my zone now. I don’t really rush to label things, I try to spend time actually listening. Feels weird to say it but ya, I do take that part seriously. Some patients just need someone to hear the whole story instead of jumping to prescription pads after 30 seconds. Right now, my practice includes everything from managing common infections, blood pressure issues, sugar problems to more layered cases where symptoms overlap and you gotta just... piece things together. It's not glamorous all the time, but it's real. I’ve handled a bunch of seasonal disease waves too, like dengue surges and viral fevers that hit rural belts hard—Hanumangarh doesn’t get much spotlight but there’s plenty happening out here. Also, I do rely on basics—thorough history, solid clinical exam and yeah when needed, investigations. But not over-prescribing things just cz they’re there. One thing I picked up from the senior consultants I worked with—they used to say “don’t chase labs, chase the patient’s story”... stuck with me till now. Anyway, still learning every single day tbh. But I like that. Keeps me grounded and kind of obsessed with trying to get better.

43 days ago

Hello
Olá! É compreensível que você esteja preocupada com sua saúde e a relação com a comida. Abaixo estão algumas informações que podem ajudar:
Abordagem Médica
1. Avaliação Médica Completa: Um médico pode realizar exames físicos e solicitar exames laboratoriais para avaliar sua saúde geral, incluindo níveis de nutrientes, hormônios e possíveis condições subjacentes.
2. Nutricionista: Um nutricionista pode ajudar a criar um plano alimentar que atenda às suas necessidades e ajude a aumentar o apetite. Eles podem sugerir alimentos ricos em calorias e nutrientes que sejam mais fáceis de consumir.
3. Terapia: Se a ansiedade em relação à comida for significativa, a terapia pode ser útil. Um psicólogo pode ajudar a abordar questões emocionais e comportamentais relacionadas à alimentação.
4. Suplementos: Dependendo da avaliação, o médico pode recomendar suplementos nutricionais para ajudar a aumentar a ingestão calórica e de nutrientes.
Possíveis Causas da Falta de Apetite
- Ansiedade e Estresse: A ansiedade pode afetar o apetite e a relação com a comida.
- Questões Emocionais: Às vezes, experiências passadas ou preocupações podem influenciar a forma como você se sente em relação à comida.
- Condições Médicas: Algumas condições de saúde podem causar perda de apetite e fraqueza, como problemas hormonais ou deficiências nutricionais.
Próximos Passos
É importante que você busque ajuda médica. Ir ao hospital ou consultar um médico pode ser um passo positivo para entender melhor sua situação e receber o apoio necessário. Você não está sozinha, e há profissionais que podem ajudar.
Se você se sentir confortável, considere levar alguém de confiança com você para o médico. Isso pode ajudar a aliviar a ansiedade e garantir que você tenha apoio durante a consulta.
Thank you

796 answered questions

39% best answers

Accepted response

0 replies

Dr. Bharat Joshi

I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.

44 days ago

Hello dear
See as per clinical history it seems chances of anaemia or nutritional deficiencies
Iam suggesting some tests for confirmation
Please share the result with the endocrinologist or general physician medicine for better clarity
Serum rbs
Serum ferritin
Serum tsh
Hba1c
Hb
Hemogram
CBC
Esr
Hopefully you recover soon
Regards

2058 answered questions

63% best answers

0 replies

Dr. Aarav Deshmukh

I am a general physician with 8 years of practice, mostly in urban clinics and semi-rural setups. I began working right after MBBS in a govt hospital in Kerala, and wow — first few months were chaotic, not gonna lie. Since then, I’ve seen 1000s of patients with all kinds of cases — fevers, uncontrolled diabetes, asthma, infections, you name it. I usually work with working-class patients, and that changed how I treat — people don’t always have time or money for fancy tests, so I focus on smart clinical diagnosis and practical treatment. Over time, I’ve developed an interest in preventive care — like helping young adults with early metabolic issues. I also counsel a lot on diet, sleep, and stress — more than half the problems start there anyway. I did a certification in evidence-based practice last year, and I keep learning stuff online. I’m not perfect (nobody is), but I care. I show up, I listen, I adjust when I’m wrong. Every patient needs something slightly different. That’s what keeps this work alive for me.

43 days ago

É importante reconhecer que a perda de apetite e o baixo peso, especialmente acompanhados de fraqueza e dores de cabeça, necessitam de uma avaliação médica atenta. Existem várias razões potenciais para a perda de apetite e baixo peso, incluindo condições médicas, como distúrbios gastrointestinais, hormonais, ou disordens alimentares. Distúrbios psicológicos, como ansiedade ou depressão, também podem impactar significativamente o apetite e a relação com a comida. Você mencionou ter aversão e ansiedade ao comer, o que pode indicar uma componente emocional ou psicológica em jogo.
Em um contexto médico, o primeiro passo geralmente envolve uma avaliação abrangente que incluirá um histórico médico detalhado e possivelmente exames laboratoriais para identificar causas orgânicas, como desequilíbrios hormonais, deficiências nutricionais ou problemas metabólicos. Eles podem pedir exames de sangue para verificar seus níveis de glicose, função da tireoide, níveis de ferro e vitamina, entre outros.
Além disso, um acompanhamento com um nutricionista pode ser útil, tanto para elaborar um plano alimentar adaptado quanto para ajudar na reintrodução progressiva de alimentos e aumento do apetite. Na medida em que o fator psicológico pode estar presente, envolver-se com um profissional de saúde mental pode proporcionar suporte essencial. Isso pode ajudá-la a trabalhar a relação com a comida, reduzir a ansiedade e desenvolver hábitos alimentares mais saudáveis.
Pode ser necessário trabalhar em conjunto com um nutricionista e psicólogo ou psiquiatra para abordar todos os aspectos da sua saúde. Uma abordagem integrada pode ser a mais eficaz para restabelecer seu apetite e peso de forma segura. Se os sintomas piorarem ou se sentir-se extremamente fraca, é importante procurar ajuda médica imediatamente. Não hesite em buscar um hospital ou serviço de emergência se houver intensidade ou piora rápida nos sintomas. Sua saúde é prioridade, e é importante ter apoio médico para guiar o tratamento de maneira segura e eficaz.

18620 answered questions

91% best answers

0 replies

Dr. Alan Reji

I'm Dr. Alan Reji, a general dentist with a deep-rooted passion for helping people achieve lasting oral health while making dental visits feel less intimidating. I graduated from Pushpagiri College of Dental Sciences (batch of 2018), and ever since, I've been committed to offering high-quality care that balances both advanced clinical knowledge and genuine compassion for my patients. Starting Dent To Smile here in Palakkad wasn’t just about opening a clinic—it was really about creating a space where people feel relaxed the moment they walk in. Dental care can feel cold or overly clinical, and I’ve always wanted to change that. So I focused on making it warm, easygoing, and centered completely around you. I mix new-age tech with some good old-fashioned values—really listening, explaining stuff without jargon, and making sure you feel involved, not just treated. From regular cleanings to fillings or even cosmetic work, I try my best to keep things smooth and stress-free. No hidden steps. No last-minute surprises. I have a strong interest in patient education and preventive dentistry. I genuinely believe most dental issues can be caught early—or even avoided—when patients are given the right information at the right time. That’s why I take time to talk, not just treat. Helping people understand why something’s happening is as important to me as treating what’s happening. At my practice, I’ve made it a point to stay current with the latest innovations—digital diagnostics, minimally invasive techniques, and smart scheduling that respects people’s time. I also try to make my services accessible and affordable, because good dental care shouldn’t be out of reach for anyone.

40 days ago

With your height and weight, you are significantly underweight, and persistent lack of appetite, weakness, headaches, and low blood pressure for more than 6 months may be related to nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalance, gastrointestinal issues, or a possible eating or anxiety-related disorder. The usual medical approach includes a full clinical evaluation, blood tests (anemia, thyroid, vitamins, glucose, electrolytes), and assessment of your relationship with food to identify the underlying cause. Please consult a General Physician first, who may then refer you to an Endocrinologist, Gastroenterologist, Nutritionist, or Mental Health specialist depending on the findings.

956 answered questions

49% best answers

0 replies

Dr. Nirav Jain

I am a qualified medical doctor with MBBS and DNB Diploma in Family Medicine from NBEMS, and my work has always been centered on treating patients in a complete, not just symptom based way. During my DNB training I rotated through almost every core department—Internal medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Surgery, Orthopedics, ENT, Dermatology, Psychiatry, Emergency medicine. That mix gave me the skill to manage acute illness, long term disease and preventive care together, something I find very important in family practice. In psychiatry I worked closely with patients who struggled with depression, anxiety, stress related problems, insomnia or substance use. I learned not just about medication but also about simple psychotherapy tools, psycho education and how to talk openly without judgement. I still use that exp in family medicine, specially when chronic disease patients also face mental health issues. My time in General surgery included assisting in minor and major procedures, managing wounds, abscess, sutures and emergencies. While I am not a surgeon, this gave me confidence to recognize surgical cases early, provide first line care and refer fast when needed, which makes a big difference in online or OPD settings. Now I work as a consultant in General medicine and Family practice, with focus on both in-person and online consultation. I treat conditions like fever, infections, gastrointestinal complaints, respiratory illness, and also manage diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and lifestyle related chronic diseases. I see women for PCOS, contraception counseling, menstrual health, and children for common pediatric issues. I also dedicate time to preventive health, lifestyle counseling and diet-sleep-exercise advice, since these small changes affect long term wellness more than we often realize. My key skills include holistic diagnosis, evidence based treatment, chronic disease management, mental health support, preventive medicine and telemedicine communiation. At the center of all this is one thing—patients should feel heard, safe, and guided with care that is both professional and personal.

37 days ago

Pelo seu peso (35 kg para 1,53 m), você realmente está abaixo do peso ideal, e a falta de apetite associada a ansiedade alimentar pode ter várias causas, incluindo ansiedade, distúrbios alimentares funcionais, alterações hormonais, anemia, deficiência de vitaminas (especialmente ferro e vitamina B12), problemas gastrointestinais ou estresse crônico. Muitas vezes, mais de um fator pode estar envolvido.
Qual é a abordagem médica habitual nesses casos?
O médico normalmente realiza:
Avaliação clínica completa (história alimentar, emocional e hormonal)
Exames de sangue básicos (hemograma, ferro, vitamina B12, função tireoidiana, glicemia)
Avaliação nutricional e, quando necessário, encaminhamento para nutricionista e apoio psicológico
O que pode ajudar inicialmente
Fazer refeições pequenas e frequentes, mesmo sem fome
Preferir alimentos mais calóricos e nutritivos (oleaginosas, leite e derivados, ovos, pastas de amendoim, smoothies nutritivos)
Manter horários regulares de alimentação
Trabalhar técnicas de redução de ansiedade, pois a ansiedade pode reduzir significativamente o apetite
Existe tratamento eficaz após identificar a causa, podendo incluir suplementação nutricional, orientação alimentar estruturada e, quando necessário, acompanhamento psicológico para ansiedade alimentar. Procurar avaliação médica é importante, pois quanto mais cedo iniciar o acompanhamento, mais fácil é recuperar o peso e a energia corporal.
Dr. Nirav Jain
MBBS, D.Fam.Medicine

617 answered questions

43% best answers

0 replies

FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.

Concerns About Low Appetite and Weight Gain - #24176

Doctors' responses

About our doctors

Related questions

Popular questions

Online

Latest reviews