Topic Overview
Malabsorption syndrome is the inability to absorb
nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from the intestinal tract into the
bloodstream.
Causes may include:
- Diseases affecting the intestine itself, such as
.
- Absence or low levels of
certain digestive enzymes.
- Diseases of the pancreas, such as
or
.
- Diseases caused by
parasites, such as
or worms.
- Changes in the
bacteria normally found in the intestinal tract.
- Surgery, such as removal of the , that
alters or reduces the length of the intestinal tract.
- .
Symptoms may include:
- Gas, bloating, and vague abdominal
discomfort.
- Frequent diarrhea and foul-smelling
stools.
- Weakness.
- Weight loss.
Your health professional can evaluate your symptoms to
determine the cause and recommend treatment. Treatment may include a special
diet, medicine to replace intestinal enzymes or reduce spasms, and vitamin or
mineral supplements, such as B12 and iron.