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What Causes Persistent Hunger In An Elderly Person?

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Posted on Thu, 2 Mar 2017
Question: I,m always hungry? Im 81 years old, 150 lbs. I eat a good breakfast, lunch, etc. But I always have to eat again at nite before going to bed?
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Answered by Dr. Klarida Papaqako (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Rule out diabetes and gastritis

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thank you for using Healthcaremagic to post your question.
I read it carefully and I understand your concern.

What you are describing may be related either to excessive acid in the stomach, or a insulin resistance.
My recommendations are :
-- Check you fasting sugar level and also 2 hours after a meal to rule out diabetes.
-- If the first one is normal then consider taking Omeprazole 20 mg (1 tablet in the morning 20 min before breakfast) as a testing empirical treatment for one week. It will cure a possible gastritis, so if it is helpful then you should consider doing a fibrogastroscopy.
-- If we rule out gastritis as well, then it may be just because you are not eating a big enough dinner, or eat it very early before sleeping. A snack may help in this case. The body needs more energy and foods if you are overweight.

Hope this is helpful and makes sense.
Let me know if you need more clarifications.

Regards,
Dr.Papaqako
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad
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Answered by
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Dr. Klarida Papaqako

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2010

Answered : 1803 Questions

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What Causes Persistent Hunger In An Elderly Person?

Brief Answer: Rule out diabetes and gastritis Detailed Answer: Hello, Thank you for using Healthcaremagic to post your question. I read it carefully and I understand your concern. What you are describing may be related either to excessive acid in the stomach, or a insulin resistance. My recommendations are : -- Check you fasting sugar level and also 2 hours after a meal to rule out diabetes. -- If the first one is normal then consider taking Omeprazole 20 mg (1 tablet in the morning 20 min before breakfast) as a testing empirical treatment for one week. It will cure a possible gastritis, so if it is helpful then you should consider doing a fibrogastroscopy. -- If we rule out gastritis as well, then it may be just because you are not eating a big enough dinner, or eat it very early before sleeping. A snack may help in this case. The body needs more energy and foods if you are overweight. Hope this is helpful and makes sense. Let me know if you need more clarifications. Regards, Dr.Papaqako