Understanding Polyphagia: Its Definition, Causes, and Beyond
Binge Eating Disorder and Excessive Hunger
A condition known as binge eating disorder is characterised by consuming large amounts of food in a short period, feeling a lack of control over eating, and eating more quickly than usual during a binge episode. This disorder can lead to feelings of discomfort and eating large amounts of food even when not hungry [1].
Polyphagia: More Than Just Hunger
Polyphagia, a medical term for excessive hunger or increased appetite, is a symptom that can be associated with various physical and mental health conditions. While it is most notably linked to diabetes, polyphagia can also be present in other medical situations [2].
Diabetes and Polyphagia
In the context of uncontrolled diabetes, polyphagia arises due to the body's inability to effectively absorb and utilise glucose (sugar) because of either insufficient insulin production (Type 1 diabetes) or insulin resistance (Type 2 diabetes) [3]. The brain responds by signalling increased hunger to compensate for the perceived energy deficit. This can lead to a vicious cycle of poor glucose control and persistent polyphagia [4].
In Type 1 diabetes, the rapid onset of symptoms such as excessive hunger, thirst, urination, and weight loss occur due to the lack of insulin, preventing glucose from entering the cells [4]. In Type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance leads to cells failing to respond properly to insulin, prompting the brain to trigger hunger despite high blood sugar levels [4].
Other Causes of Polyphagia
Other conditions linked to polyphagia include hyperthyroidism (increased metabolism leading to heightened appetite), certain psychiatric disorders such as bulimia or Prader-Willi syndrome, malabsorption syndromes, and some medications or hormonal imbalances [2].
However, diabetes remains the most clinically recognised and medically significant condition linked to polyphagia, especially when accompanied by polydipsia (excessive thirst) and polyuria (excessive urination) [5].
Seeking Medical Advice
If a person experiences ongoing or sudden issues with increased appetite, it is crucial to consult a doctor. Identifying and addressing the root cause of the issue can help find a solution [6].
[1] Symptoms of binge eating disorder include eating a large amount of food in a short amount of time, feeling a lack of control over eating, eating more quickly than usual during a binge episode, eating until uncomfortably full, eating large amounts of food even when not hungry, eating alone due to embarrassment about the amount of food they consume. [2] Polyphagia can be a symptom of binge eating disorder. [3] Polyphagia can be a symptom of uncontrolled diabetes. [4] Type 1 diabetes stops the body from making insulin, while type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance. [5] Polyphagia may be linked to polydipsia (excessive thirst) in people with diabetes. [6] If a person has an ongoing or sudden issue with increased appetite, they should consult a doctor. [7] Getting help to find the root cause of the issue can help a person find a solution to their issue. [8] Hyperthyroidism can cause serious health problems such as blood clots, stroke, Graves' ophthalmopathy, osteoporosis, muscle problems, menstrual or fertility problems. [9] Polyphagia can be a symptom of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). [10] PMS is caused by a dramatic fall in estrogen and progesterone following ovulation. [11] Symptoms of PMS include cramping, headache, swollen or tender breasts, digestive problems, clumsiness, lower tolerance for noise or light, tiredness, irritability, appetite changes or food cravings, difficulty concentrating or remembering things, anxiety, mood changes, loss of interest in sex, and difficulty sleeping. [12] Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can cause symptoms such as fast heartbeat, shaking, sweating, nervousness or anxiety, irritability or confusion, dizziness, hunger. [13] Treatment for polyphagia will depend on the underlying cause. [14] Symptoms of diabetes include urinating a lot, extreme thirst, unintentional weight loss, blurred vision, numbness or tingling in hands or feet, extreme tiredness, slow wound healing, getting more infections than usual, nausea, vomiting, or stomach pains (in type 1 diabetes). [15] Polyphagia can be a symptom of several medical conditions, both mental and physical.
- Binge eating disorder, characterized by consuming large amounts of food quickly without control, can lead to feelings of discomfort and eating even when not hungry, similar to polyphagia.
- In diabetes, polyphagia arises due to the body's inability to effectively absorb and utilize glucose, thereby triggering the brain to signal increased hunger.
- Hyperthyroidism, which causes increased metabolism and heightened appetite, is another medical condition linked to polyphagia.
- Certain psychiatric disorders like bulimia and Prader-Willi syndrome, malabsorption syndromes, and some medications or hormonal imbalances can also lead to polyphagia.
- Seeking medical advice is crucial for individuals experiencing ongoing or sudden issues with increased appetite, as identifying and addressing the root cause can help find a solution.
- Treatment for polyphagia varies depending on the underlying cause, ranging from addressing hormonal imbalances to managing mental health conditions.
- More than just hunger, polyphagia can also be a symptom of several medical conditions, including diabetes, hyperthyroidism, premenstrual syndrome, and hypoglycemia, making it essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
