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Suggest Remedy For Low Appetite, Constipation And Diarrhea

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Posted on Mon, 4 May 2015
Question: I have had low appetite, constipation, and diarrhea for 6 weeks. My stools are sometimes normal color and consistency, and sometimes pale and loose. I have lost 15 lbs in this period. Last night I went to the ER with terrible left upper quadrant pain. Ultrasound showed no gall stones. X-rays showed no obstruction. The only anomalous finding was my total bilirubin was 2.1 mg/dL.

I'm absolutely terrified I have pancreatic cancer. Is there another disorder that could cause these symptoms?
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Answered by Dr. Dr.P.Ratnakar Kini (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Signs of malabsorption

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for posting your query.
I am Dr.R.K and I am pleased to assist you.
Pale loose stools and weight loss may indicate malabsorption especially fat malabsorption.
It need not be pancreatic cancer. Chronic pancreatitis can also cause abdominal pain, loose stools and weight loss.

I would advise you to get a stool test and a CT scan of the abdomen done to rule out pancreatic causes for your symptoms.

Please upload the complete report of the liver function test.
Regards,
Dr.R.K.
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr.P.Ratnakar Kini

Gastroenterologist

Practicing since :1994

Answered : 2208 Questions

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Suggest Remedy For Low Appetite, Constipation And Diarrhea

Brief Answer: Signs of malabsorption Detailed Answer: Hi, Thanks for posting your query. I am Dr.R.K and I am pleased to assist you. Pale loose stools and weight loss may indicate malabsorption especially fat malabsorption. It need not be pancreatic cancer. Chronic pancreatitis can also cause abdominal pain, loose stools and weight loss. I would advise you to get a stool test and a CT scan of the abdomen done to rule out pancreatic causes for your symptoms. Please upload the complete report of the liver function test. Regards, Dr.R.K.