[18F] Experiencing unexplained weight loss, nausea, and lightheadedness

What might be happening

Based on the information you provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

• Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Viral gastroenteritis is particularly common and is also known as stomach flu. Your symptoms of nausea, abdominal pain, and weight loss are common in gastroenteritis. However, diarrhea is also a common symptom which you did not report.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be necessary if the cause is bacterial.

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining. It can be caused by drinking too much alcohol, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen, or infection with bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori. Gastritis can occur suddenly (acute gastritis) or gradually (chronic gastritis). Your symptoms of nausea, abdominal pain, and weight loss are common in gastritis.

  • Treatment usually involves taking antacids and other drugs to reduce stomach acid, which helps relieve gastritis symptoms and promotes healing.

• Gastroparesis: This is a condition in which your stomach cannot empty itself of food in a normal fashion. It is caused by damage to the vagus nerve, which regulates the digestive system. A damaged vagus nerve prevents the muscles in the stomach and intestine from functioning, preventing food from moving through the digestive system properly. Often, the cause of gastroparesis is unknown. Your symptoms of nausea, abdominal pain, and weight loss are common in gastroparesis.

  • Treatment usually involves changes in eating habits and medication.

• Eating disorders: Conditions such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa can cause nausea, weight loss, and a feeling of fullness after eating only small amounts. These conditions often require a combination of psychological therapy and nutritional rehabilitation.

• Peptic Ulcer Disease: This condition is characterized by sores that develop on the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is burning abdominal pain that extends from the navel to the chest, which can be relieved by taking antacids. In some cases, however, peptic ulcers can cause severe symptoms like vomiting, weight loss and severe pain.

  • Treatment usually involves medication to decrease stomach acid. If a bacteria called H. pylori is causing your ulcers, you’ll need antibiotics.

What you can do

You should definitely see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can perform a physical examination and potentially order tests such as blood tests, stool tests, or imaging studies to help determine what is causing your symptoms. In the meantime, try to stay hydrated and eat small, bland meals if you can. Over-the-counter antacids may help with the stomach pain and nausea.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you:

• Vomit blood or have blood in your stool (which can appear as black, tarry stools)
• Have severe abdominal pain
• Have signs of dehydration, such as dark urine, dry skin, or feeling lightheaded when standing up
• Continue to lose weight

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice is not a substitute for professional medical advice.