Why do patients with advanced bile duct cancer often feel hungry at night?

In general, persistent hunger at night in patients with advanced bile duct cancer may be related to abnormal bile secretion, malnutrition, drug irritation, decreased digestive function, and liver dysfunction. Patients should seek timely medical attention at a正规 hospital to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Abnormal Bile Secretion

Advanced bile duct cancer can impair the function of the biliary system, including normal bile secretion and excretion. Insufficient or abnormal bile secretion may affect fat digestion and absorption, thereby impairing the body's ability to utilize energy, leading to frequent feelings of hunger at night. It is recommended that patients maintain a balanced diet and consume foods rich in protein, vitamins, and other nutrients, such as eggs, milk, and celery.

2. Malnutrition

Patients with advanced bile duct cancer often suffer from wasting diseases and may experience poor appetite, nausea, and vomiting, which interfere with normal eating and lead to malnutrition. This may result in symptoms such as persistent hunger, fatigue, and weight loss. Patients can adjust their diet appropriately and engage in moderate physical exercise, such as jogging or swimming, to help improve immunity and physical strength.

3. Drug Irritation

Patients with advanced bile duct cancer may require medications to relieve pain, control symptoms, or treat complications. Some drugs may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, increasing intestinal motility and thereby enhancing feelings of hunger. These medications may also cause side effects such as loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. It is recommended that patients adjust medication dosages under medical supervision or switch to alternative treatments.

4. Decreased Digestive Function

Advanced bile duct cancer may impair normal digestive system functions, including gastrointestinal motility and the secretion of digestive enzymes. Reduced digestive function may prolong food retention in the gastrointestinal tract and slow down digestion and absorption, contributing to the aforementioned symptoms. Patients should adopt a regimen of eating small meals frequently and consume light, easily digestible foods such as millet porridge, noodles, and oatmeal.

5. Liver Dysfunction

Advanced bile duct cancer may obstruct bile excretion, leading to bile stasis and liver dysfunction. Impaired liver function can disrupt blood glucose stability and gluconeogenesis, affecting glucose regulation and potentially causing increased nighttime hunger. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as compound glycyrrhizin tablets, bicyclol tablets, or diammonium glycyrrhetate injection for treatment.

In daily life, patients should ensure adequate rest and avoid staying up late. The diet should be light, and spicy or irritating foods should be avoided.