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Can't eat. I have messed up! what to do?

76 replies

Cardiaga · 02/06/2025 16:30

Hi
Looking for some advice and have name changed as this is embarrassing. For reasons that I'd rather not go into, I've not been able to eat anything for a few days, or so I thought. I wasn't too worried as I was drinking water and tea. I looked back on my fitness tracker a couple of days ago and realised it'd actually been three weeks since I ate anything. I realise this is stupid! The thing is I don't have any appetite at all but over the weekend I tried to make myself eat small portions of bland food- some rice, cooked vegetables. It all came straight back up and provoked horrible diarrhoea. I'm sure there's not an underlying problem and it will take weeks to get a Dr appointment. Does anyone have any ideas? I totally get this my own stupid fault.

OP posts:
Zov · 03/06/2025 13:11

I don't understand how anyone can think they've only gone 3 days without food when it's actually 3 weeks. You need serious medical intervention. Ask for an appointment with your GP. Tell them it's urgent. You're going to make yourself very ill.

A quick google search brought up this.

Going three weeks without food can lead to significant health issues, including muscle wasting, weakened immune system, and potentially life-threatening complications. While the body can technically survive for a while without food, the prolonged lack of nutrients can lead to severe health consequences.
Here's a more detailed look at what could happen:

Muscle Loss:
The body will start using muscle tissue for energy when it runs out of stored fat.
Weakened Immune System:
Starvation can compromise the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections.
Brain Function Impairment:
Brain function can be affected, leading to difficulties with concentration, memory, and even potential psychotic episodes.
Gastrointestinal Issues:
The digestive system can be disrupted, leading to nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
Other Complications:
You might experience hair loss, lower sex drive, and cold intolerance, among other things.
Refeeding Syndrome:
If food is reintroduced too quickly after a long period of starvation, it can cause a dangerous and potentially life-threatening complication called refeeding syndrome. This involves a rapid shift in electrolytes and can lead to breathing difficulties, seizures, and even cardiac arrest,

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