What Are the Causes of Always Being Hungry?

Hunger is a natural instinct and plays an important part in human survival. However, some people feel excessively hungry, which is a condition called polyphagia. This can be caused by a variety of mental and physical conditions. Always contact a doctor immediately with any concerns about excessive hunger, as some of the underlying causes may be serious.

About

• Excessive hunger is typically the result of underlying medical or emotional issues. Medical conditions may increase the body's metabolism, thereby spiking appetite and the desire for food. Emotional conditions may cause a spike in appetite as well. Treatment for polyphagia depends on the underlying cause.

Diabetes

• Excessive hunger can be a sign of diabetes, particularly undiagnosed or uncontrolled diabetes. Diabetes is a reduction or failure of the ability to handle sugar in the blood. Nearly 8 million Americans suffer from diabetes. Excessive hunger can occur when blood sugar levels are extremely elevated and are not controlled through insulin or food control.

Hypoglycemia

• Hypoglycemia is a condition caused by low blood sugar. The condition is common with diabetics but also exists independent of diabetes. Hypoglycemia may be characterized by shaking, irritability, and a sudden, overwhelming need to eat.

Brain Injury

• Brain injury occurs through a sudden impact on the head, resulting in damage to the brain. Symptoms of brain injury include severe headaches, nausea, cognitive difficulties and sudden changes in appetite, including extreme hunger.

Hyperthyroidism

• Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid is producing excessive hormones, which can result in the feeling of extreme hunger and resulting weight gain. Hyperthyroidism can typically be treated with medication, surgery or radioactive therapy and the appetite can be brought back into a more normal range.

Bipolar Disease

• Bipolar disease, which is characterized by manic and depressive stages, often results in extreme hunger when the person is in a manic phase. The manic phase may also be characterized by feelings of euphoria and extreme well-being. Bipolar disease is best treated by a combination of medication and therapy.

Considerations

• Excessive hunger is not considered to be abnormal if it follows periods of starvation or is a normal behavior for someone with a typically large appetite. Other considerations that may play into treating excessive hunger include the mental state of the person experiencing the disorder, any significant weight gain or loss, whether the person is purging after eating large amounts of food and whether the person is ingesting any medication, drugs or alcohol on a regular basis. Consult a doctor for more information.