I can only speculate but I would suggest playing a different race/class combo. Maybe something like a dwarf paladin. They are a lot more tanky and you will see they can survive more shots and random door traps.
Also, If I were you, I would focus more on scrolls of identify as being your #1 goal to get (usually they are pretty common so try reading the biggest unidentified stack of scrolls you have. Obviously you will need a race that starts with literacy). This way you can identify potions which could potentially save your life from poison or starvation (potions give slight to extreme satiatiation ).
In a big room, I would suggest trying out your wands to see if you can get an offensive one with charges. Wands are extremely useful for more powerful monsters you encounter.
Another answer to all of your problems will be altars and piety, prayers are very powerful.
Don't get discouraged! And I have to agree with you that the detail is insane and draws me back too. I'm just waiting for a new release to start playing again
Also - certain classes have class powers which can save you from things like poison and sickness
Good luck!
Last edited by boat; 09-17-2014 at 03:01 PM.
Gate Closers:
Dwarf Monk (p17), Dwarf Paladin (p23), Gnome Duelist (r49), Dark Elf Barbarian (r50), High Elf Archer (r51)