What Is Polyphagia?

Polyphagia is a condition in which a person experiences a lot of hunger or consumes more food than is required to satisfy his or her energy requirement as per the body. It is in contrast to temporary hunger due to missed meals or physical activity since polyphagia is chronic and can develop even after consuming sufficient portions of food.

It is usually linked to disorders like diabetes mellitus, hormonal imbalances, and some mental diseases. Polyphagia may result in weight gain/loss, nutritional disturbances, and distress in case of untreatment.


Understanding Hunger And Appetite Regulation

The relations between the brain and the digestive system (hormones) and the brain and hunger/appetite are a complicated game that can be controlled. The hypothalamus is at the forefront of giving signals when energy is required in the body. Some of the important considerations in the control of appetite are:


  • Blood glucose levels
  • Insulin, ghrelin and leptin hormones.
  • Absorption and digestion of nutrients.
  • Emotional condition and psychological signifying.

The breaking of this balance will lead to delayed or suppressed messages of fullness and will lead to feeling of excessive hunger or to the sensation of constant hunger.


Common Causes Of Polyphagia

Polyphagia may arise as a result of many physical and psychological disorders. The management should know the root cause in order to manage it. Common causes include:


  • Diabetes mellitus and in particular, uncontrolled blood sugar.
  • Hyperthyroidism, metabolism acceleration.
  • Insulin resistance and other hormonal problems.
  • Hypoglycemia, which leads to sudden hunger attacks.
  • Anxiety and stress, resulting into emotional eating.
  • Rapid eye movement or eating disorders, including the binge eating disorder.
  • Medications, corticosteroids, and some antidepressants.
  • Sleep deprivation, which interferes with the hunger hormones.

The causes have different impacts on regulation of appetite and thus effective diagnosis is important.


Read More: Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options


Symptoms Associated With Polyphagia

Polyphagia may be accompanied by other physical/emotional manifestations, depending on the underlying disease.

Common symptoms include:


  • After meals, constantly hungry.
  • Regular desire to eat high calorie food.
  • Axial weight gain or weight loss.
  • Fatigue or low energy levels
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Thirsty or dehydrated (particularly in diabetes) or frequent urination.
  • Alterations in mood or grouping.

Although persistent symptoms may be insignificant, they can be an indicator of the serious medical condition.


Diagnosis Of Polyphagia

Polyphagia diagnosis is diagnosed by the symptom itself as well as the cause. A medical history and a physical examination will be the first steps of healthcare professionals. Diagnostic methods might be:


  • Blood glucose testing
  • Thyroid function tests
  • Hormonal assessments
  • Nutritional and diet analysis.
  • Mental health screening
  • Medication review and lifestyle review.

Proper diagnosis of polyphagia assists in determining a specific treatment and avoids complications.


Treatment And Management Of Polyphagia

Treatment of Polyphagia is dependent on the treatment of causes rather than the inhibition of appetite. Lifestyle changes are usually used together with medical intervention. Some of the polyphagia treatment options could be:


  • Diabetes management with the help of blood sugar.
  • Endocrine disorder hormonal treatment.
  • Change in medications in case of appetite change is due to drug.
  • Therapy for mental illnesses.
  • Nutritional counseling

Excessive hunger in most of the situations is greatly diminished by treatment of the underlying condition.


Lifestyle And Dietary Tips To Control Excessive Hunger

Exercise habits are essential in the treatment of polyphagia in order to avoid frequent bouts of hunger. Helpful strategies include:


  • Consuming healthy diets that have protein, fiber and healthy fats.
  • Having routine meal timings.
  • Maintaining fluency during the day.
  • Relaxation to deal with stress.
  • Getting adequate sleep
  • Restricting refined sugar and processed food.
  • Practicing mindful eating

The habits contribute to maintaining a stable level of blood sugar and enhance appetite.


Conclusion

Polyphagia or hyperphagia is not merely an augmentation of appetite, it is the manifestation of a medical or mental problem. The constant starvation should also be taken into account to identify the potential causes, such as diabetes, hormonal disorders or mental illness. This is because proper diagnosis, medical treatment and lifestyle changes can help in the successful treatment of Polyphagia resulting in improved living life and general health.


Please book an appointment with the Best Endocrinologist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find the verified doctor for your disease.