Malabsorption may lead to a variety of signs and symptoms, depending on the type, cause and severity of the malabsorption. Signs and symptoms of malabsorption may include:

• Steatorrhea. Greasy, light-colored stool that is soft, bulky and foul smelling. It may float in water and stick to the side of the toilet bowl, making it difficult to flush away. Steatorrhea is a sign of fat malabsorption. It often occurs in combination with other types of malabsorption and in conditions that involve malabsorption.
  
  
• Diarrhea. Loose, watery stool. Patients with malabsorption may experience chronic diarrhea. Explosive diarrhea may be a sign of carbohydrate malabsorption.
  
  
• Gas. Air produced during digestion that is normally expelled through the anus (flatulence) or mouth (belching). It often occurs in patients with malabsorption due to the fermentation of unabsorbed carbohydrates. Bloating may occur when gas is trapped in the intestines. It may include abdominal distention due to gas and pressure buildup in the intestines. Cramping and abdominal discomfort may occur with bloating and abdominal distension. Bloating and flatulence are often signs of carbohydrate malabsorption.
  
  
• Unexplained weight loss. Patients with malabsorption are not absorbing necessary nutrients which may cause substantial weight loss. This can occur even when patients are consuming a healthy diet.
  
  
• Malnutrition. Poor nourishment. In children, severe cases of malnutrition can lead to stunted growth or development. Signs of malnutrition vary depending on the particular nutrient(s) not being absorbed, but may include:
  
  
• Edema (swelling anywhere in the body)
• Dry skin
• Hair loss
• Anemia
• Easy bruising
• Dehydration
• Fatigue
• Vision problems