Loss of appetite

A decreased desire to eat even when there is a physical need for food. Loss of appetite can have a variety of causes, such as emotional upset, anxiety, loneliness, depression, school or work stress, fatigue, and acute infection or illness, such as the flu. Appetite can also be affected by drugs and medications, including amphetamines, chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, cough and cold preparations, codeine, morphine, meperidine, and digitalis. Constant snacking during the day, which decreases the appetite at mealtime; diseases of the digestive system, including cancer; and an eating disorder can also be culprits.


A temporary decrease in appetite, medically referred to as anorexia, often occurs as a result of emotional distress or a minor illness. However, if the loss of appetite persists over time, it may indicate an underlying physical or psychological disorder of greater significance. In such cases, it is imperative to seek medical evaluation and investigation by a qualified healthcare professional.


Among adolescents and young adults, a decrease in appetite can stem from conditions such as anorexia nervosa, which is an eating disorder, or drug abuse, particularly involving amphetamine substances. Loss of appetite can also be associated with depression or anxiety, irrespective of age.


Appetite loss can be attributed to various physical factors, including a stroke, which involves damage to a specific area of the brain due to an interruption in its blood supply. Additionally, conditions such as brain tumors or head injuries that affect the hypothalamus or cerebral cortex—both responsible for appetite regulation—can lead to decreased appetite. Intestinal disorders like gastritis, commonly observed in individuals with alcohol abuse issues, stomach cancer, gastric ulcers, and liver disorders like hepatitis, are other potential causes of appetite loss. Moreover, infectious diseases like influenza are also known to contribute to a decrease in appetite.


Between the ages of approximately two and four, certain children experience a phase where they refuse food. In the absence of any other accompanying symptoms, this period should be considered a typical aspect of a child’s development.


In the case of an overall healthy individual, abstaining from food for a span of two to three days is generally not detrimental, as long as an ample amount of nonalcoholic fluids are consumed. Nevertheless, it is essential to seek medical advice if there are underlying health concerns (especially diabetes mellitus) or if the individual is taking regular medication.


Any instance of prolonged appetite loss lasting more than a few days necessitates medical investigation by a doctor. Typically, once any underlying illness has been addressed and treated, the appetite tends to return to normal.


 


Posted

in

by

Tags: