Definition:
Appetite is the desire to eat. A decreased appetite is when you have a reduced desire to eat. This occurs despite the body's basic caloric (energy) needs.
Alternative Names:
Loss of appetite; Decreased appetite
Considerations:
Any illness can affect a previously hearty appetite. If the illness is treatable, the appetite should return when the condition is cured. Loss of appetite can cause unintentional weight loss. Depression in the elderly is a common cause of weight loss that is not explained by other factors.
Common Causes:
- Anorexia nervosa
- Cancer
- Chronic liver disease
- Chronic kidney failure
- Emotional upset, nervousness, loneliness, boredom, tension, anxiety, loss, and depression
- HIV
- Hypothyroidism
- Infections
- Medications and street drugs
- Amphetamines
- Antibiotics
- Chemotherapy drugs
- Codeine
- Cough and cold medications
- Digitalis
- Demerol
- Morphine
- Sympathomimetics, including ephedrine
- Pregnancy (first trimester)
References:
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