At the end of August 2025 I suddenly developed chronic digestive symptoms after an evening takeaway meal (vegetarian burger). I lost 20 lbs in the first 5 weeks but after that the weight stabilised. At first I thought it was a stomach bug, but the symptoms continued. I felt constantly bloated, had frequent burping, and no appetite, and felt full very quickly when trying to eat even small amounts of food. I could only eat a few teaspoons at a time and lost weight because I couldn’t eat properly. Around the same time I also developed a dry mouth and a white-coated tongue and was given medication for suspected oral thrush. Before this started I had never had any digestive problems or significant illnesses, and I went to the gym regularly and had a strong appetite.
My digestion has improved and I can now eat regular meals and reasonable quantities again. However, my appetite signal has never returned, and I experience burping all the time and my stomach constantly feels full/inflated which make talking uncomfortable.
Tests and investigations so far (none have identified the cause):
• Full blood tests – normal
• Helicobacter pylori test – negative
• Endoscopy – normal
• Abdominal ultrasound – normal
• Chest X-ray – normal
• Stool calprotectin – initially 98, later normal at 18
• SIBO breath test – clear
• Geneva Diagnostics stool test (Dec) – key findings:
• Microbiome mostly within healthy range (except low Akkermansia)
• Short-chain fatty acids slightly low
• Faecal secretory IgA slightly elevated suggesting mild immune activity
• Blastocystis parasite DNA fragments detected on PCR (not seen under microscope – may represent past or very low-level infection)
Since this started I have not been able to resume exercise, whereas previously I went to the gym regularly. I have also been experiencing lethargy, lack of motivation and low mood due to these health issues.
I now feel very lost on where to go because nothings picked anything up
