Loss of appetite - what causes anorexia?

Loss of appetite - what causes anorexia?

This diagnosis means that you are not hungry - hunger is a symptom of many conditions.

Loss of appetite is medically called anorexia - this term should not be confused with the eating disorder known as anorexia nervosa.

When you lose your appetite, you may notice that:

  • You feel full;
  • You no longer like the smell, sight or taste of food;
  • You do not want to eat with others.

You may lose your appetite suddenly or over time. You should definitely consult a doctor if your condition does not improve for more than a week, that is, if your appetite has not returned.

Often, loss of appetite is accompanied by the following symptoms:

  • Fatigue or lack of energy;
  • Nausea or vomiting;
  • Muscle weakness;
  • Constipation or diarrhea;
  • Changes in the texture of your skin, hair and nails.

You have lost your appetite if you notice the following signs:

  • You are no longer interested in food;
  • You no longer like your favorite foods;
  • You skip breakfast, lunch, or dinner;
  • You have weight changes.

Physical causes of loss of appetite include:

  • Pain;
  • Dehydration;
  • Dental problems or toothache;
  • Trauma;
  • Loss of smell or taste;
  • You are recovering from surgery.

Psychological causes include:

  • Anxiety;
  • Eating disorders;
  • Emotional reactions;
  • Depression;
  • Stress.

The following types of illnesses can cause loss of appetite:

  • Colds;
  • Infections;
  • Cancer;
  • Dementia;
  • Diabetes;
  • Food poisoning;
  • Heart, lung, kidney, or liver disease;
  • Hypothyroidism.

In some clinical cases, fatigue is a side effect of medication.

Source:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/24228-loss-of-appetite