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Malabsorption Syndrome

Topic Overview

Malabsorption syndrome is the inability to absorb nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from the intestinal tract into the bloodstream.

Causes may include:

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.

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Last Revised April 26, 2010

Last Revised: April 26, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine

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