Feeling hungry all the time even after eating without feeling full
Mar 28, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Chao
Introduction
Feeling hungry all the time despite having eaten enough may be due to physiological factors, but pathological causes should also be considered. Conditions such as hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and gastric ulcers can also cause the aforementioned symptoms. It is recommended to maintain adequate nutritional intake in daily life, seek medical evaluation when necessary, and follow a doctor's instructions for treatment with anti-thyroid or blood sugar-lowering medications.
Feeling hungry frequently despite having eaten may be caused by physiological factors such as strong digestive function, or it could result from pathological conditions such as hyperthyroidism or diabetes. It is recommended to maintain adequate nutritional intake and, when necessary, seek medical evaluation at a hospital. Follow medical advice for treatment with antithyroid or blood glucose-lowering medications as appropriate. Specific details are as follows:
I. Physiological Factors
Frequent hunger may occur due to consistently small meal portions, high intake of soups or fluids, or naturally strong digestive capacity. It is advisable to adjust dietary habits by reducing frequent consumption of liquid or semi-liquid foods and instead incorporating more solid foods or increasing portion sizes, which can help improve the condition.
II. Pathological Factors
1. Hyperthyroidism
Also commonly known as "overactive thyroid," hyperthyroidism is a clinical syndrome caused by excessive release of thyroid hormones. Main symptoms include rapid heartbeat, increased appetite, and weight loss. Patients should ensure adequate rest and avoid iodine-containing medications. Under medical guidance, antithyroid drugs such as propylthiouracil tablets or methimazole tablets may be prescribed, or radioactive iodine therapy may be considered.
2. Diabetes
Classic symptoms of diabetes include the "three highs and one low"—increased thirst, increased appetite, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss—along with elevated blood glucose levels and glucose in the urine. It is recommended to closely monitor blood glucose levels. When necessary, follow medical advice to use glucose-lowering medications such as metformin hydrochloride sustained-release tablets, acarbose tablets, or insulin therapy.
In addition, acute gastroenteritis may also cause the above symptoms. It is advised not to self-medicate blindly, as inappropriate medication may worsen symptoms. Instead, visit the gastroenterology department at a hospital for appropriate diagnostic tests and receive targeted treatment under medical supervision.
