Decreased Appetite: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment
Loss of Appetite or a decreased desire to eat is a common symptom of many medical and psychological conditions. Medically, it is known as anorexia. Almost any illness can cause a decrease in appetite.
An extreme, decreased Appetite can lead to weight loss and malnutrition, which is unwanted. Along with the decreased Appetite, a person can also experience fatigue and weight loss if they are not eating enough food to support their body.
What are the Conditions Causing Loss of Appetite?
Loss of Appetite, medically known as anorexia, can be caused by a variety of conditions and diseases;
- Abdominal Pain or cramps
- Changes in taste or smell
- Chronic or persistent diarrhea
- Constipation
- Heartburn
- Indigestion
- Jaundice
- Nausea with or without vomiting
Any of the symptoms, including lack of appetite from the effects of drugs, may be acute and reversible.
Some of the conditions can be more serious, such as those arising from the effects of underlying cancer. A healthcare professional with shouanorexia, would evaluate any persistent lack of appetite.
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Get A Second OpinionWhat are the Causes of Loss of Appetite?
Several conditions can cause a decrease in appetite. In most cases, your appetite will return to normal once the underlying condition or reason is treated.
Bacteria and viruses
Bacterial, infectious, fungal, or other pathogens may cause appetite loss.
There are only a few of the outcomes that are possible:
- an upper respiratory infection
- Pneumonia
- gastroenteritis
- colitis
- a skin infection
- Meningitis
Psychological Causes
- There are several psychological causes for decreased appetite. Many older adults lose their appetite, although experts don't know exactly why.
- Your appetite may also decrease when you are sad, depressed, upset, or anxious. A reduced appetite has also been related to boredom and stress. Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, can also lead to an overall decreased appetite. A person with anorexia nervosa goes through starvation or
- other methods of losing weight.
- People with this condition are often underweight and afraid of gaining weight. Anorexia nervosa can also cause malnutrition.
Medical Conditions
The following medical conditions can cause your appetite to decrease:
- chronic liver disease
- Kidney Failure
- Heart failure
- hepatitis
- HIV
- dementia
- Hypothyroidism
Cancer can also cause decreased Appetite, especially if the cancer is concentrated in the following areas:
- colon
- stomach
- ovaries
- pancreas
- pregnancy can also cause decreased Appetite during the first trimester
Medications
Some medicines and drugs can reduce your appetite. These include illicit drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, and amphetamines, along with prescription drugs.
Some prescription drugs that reduce appetite include:
- certain antibiotics
- codeine
- morphine
- chemotherapy drugs
How is Decreased Appetite Diagnosed?
A doctor will examine all of a person's symptoms and use them to determine the possible cause of the decreased Appetite.
A doctor can examine a person's abdomen by feeling with the hand for unusual swelling, lumps, or tenderness. This can help them find out if a gastrointestinal disorder is causing a decreased Appetite.
A doctor can also run tests to help them determine the cause. The tests may include:
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Book an AppointmentWhat are the Treatments of Loss of Appetite?
During your appointment, your doctor will try to create a complete picture of your symptoms. They will measure your weight and height and compare it to the population average. You will also be asked about your medical history, the medications you take, and your diet. Be prepared to answer questions about:
- When the symptoms started
- Either mild or severe
- How much weight have you lost
- If there was any triggering event
- If you have other symptoms
- Then tests may be needed to find the cause of the decreased appetite
Possible tests include:
- an ultrasound of your abdomen
- a complete blood count
- tests of your liver, thyroid, and kidney function (usually only require a blood sample)
- an upper GI series, which includes X-rays that examine your esophagus, stomach, and small intestine
- a CT scan of your head, chest, abdomen, or pelvis
- In some cases, you will have a pregnancy and HIV test. Your urine may be checked for drug residues.
If your decreased Appetite has resulted in malnutrition, you may be given nutrients through an IV.
Your doctor may also prescribe oral medications to stimulate your appetite.
If your decreased Appetite is the result of depression, an eating disorder, or drug abuse, you may be referred to a mental health specialist.
If medication leads to a decreased Appetite, consult your doctor about adjusting the dosage or trying a different prescription. Always seek medical advice before altering your medication regimen.
When to visit a Doctor?
People can talk to a doctor if they have had a long-term loss of appetite. If they notice unexpected or rapid weight loss, they should also see their doctor.
A person should seek medical help if they notice any other symptoms along with Loss of appetite, such as:
What are the Home Remedies for Loss of Appetite?
- Make sleep a priority
- follow a regular sleep schedule
- develop and maintain a relaxing routine before bed, which may involve reading or taking a warm bath
- ensure a relaxing, dark, calm, and cool sleep environment
- avoid caffeine and other stimulants near bedtime
- Drink lots of water. Dehydration can lead to reduced energy and tiredness symptoms. Drink water regularly throughout the day.
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet : Dehydration can lead to reduced levels of energy and symptoms of tiredness. Drink water regularly throughout the day.
- Focus on stress management : Stress can lead to digestive problems, trouble sleeping, and fatigue. Stress can also exacerbate underlying health conditions, such as depression, fibromyalgia, and Crohn's disease. The following activities can help a person manage their stress levels:
- regular exercise
- meditation
- talk therapy
