What is a primary symptom of short-bowel syndrome?

Short-bowel syndrome is a condition that arises when a significant portion of the small intestine is removed or is nonfunctional. This results in reduced absorption of nutrients, leading to malnutrition as a primary symptom. Since the small intestine is critical for absorbing macronutrients, micronutrients, and fluids, inadequate bowel surface area severely impacts the body's ability to obtain necessary nutrients from food.

Individuals with short-bowel syndrome may struggle to maintain body weight, experience deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, and exhibit symptoms of malnutrition such as fatigue, weakness, and potential growth disturbances in children. The other symptoms listed, while they may occur in various digestive disorders, are not as directly related to the fundamental issue presented in short-bowel syndrome as malnutrition is.