Malabsorption (gut can't absorb food)

Overview

Greasy, floating, bad-smelling stools suggest fat isn't absorbed.

The gut can't absorb nutrients from food.

Celiac disease is a common cause.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Diarrhea and weight loss
• Losing weight without trying

Less common

• Greasy stools
• Bloating
• Tiredness

When to get medical care

Causes

Gut or pancreas problems.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Gut surgery

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Stool tests:
• Blood tests:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Eat small meals
• Take supplements as prescribed

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Treat the cause

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Children: Slow growth.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Outlook depends on the cause; early care helps.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Malabsorption (gut can't absorb food)