Loss of Appetite

Loss of Appetite

Overview

Loss of appetite, also known as anorexia, refers to a decreased desire to eat. It can be temporary or indicate an underlying medical condition, particularly related to the digestive system. Persistent loss of appetite may lead to weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, and other health complications.

Common Symptoms of Loss of Appetite

Loss of appetite can be accompanied by other symptoms depending on the underlying cause, such as:

• Unintentional weight loss – A noticeable reduction in body weight without trying.
• Early satiety – Feeling full after eating only a small amount.
• Nausea & vomiting – A sensation of discomfort in the stomach that may lead to vomiting.
• Abdominal pain & bloating – Discomfort, cramping, or a swollen feeling in the stomach.
• Fatigue & weakness – A general lack of energy due to inadequate nutrition.
• Changes in bowel habits – Diarrhea, constipation, or irregular bowel movements.
• Acid reflux & heartburn – A burning sensation in the chest or throat after eating.
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes) – A sign of liver-related disorders.

Possible Causes of Loss of Appetite

Loss of appetite can be caused by various gastrointestinal and systemic conditions, including:

Gastrointestinal Causes

• Gastritis & Peptic Ulcers – Inflammation or sores in the stomach lining causing discomfort.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) – Chronic acid reflux leading to pain and nausea.
• Liver Diseases (Hepatitis, Cirrhosis, Fatty Liver Disease) – Liver dysfunction affecting digestion and metabolism.
• Pancreatic Disorders (Pancreatitis, Pancreatic Cancer) – Inflammation or tumors affecting digestion.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – Crohn’s Disease & Ulcerative Colitis – Chronic inflammation of the intestines.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – A functional gut disorder causing bloating, cramps, and appetite changes.
• Intestinal Obstruction – Blockage in the intestines preventing normal digestion.

Other Medical Causes

• Infections (Viral, Bacterial, Parasitic) – Conditions like food poisoning or stomach flu.
• Chronic Conditions (Diabetes, Kidney Disease, Thyroid Disorders) – Metabolic disorders affecting appetite.
• Cancer (Stomach, Esophageal, Pancreatic, Liver Cancer) – Tumors impacting digestion and appetite.
• Medications & Treatments (Chemotherapy, Antibiotics, Painkillers) – Drugs that cause nausea and loss of hunger.
• Psychological Factors (Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Eating Disorders) – Mental health conditions affecting appetite.

When to See a Doctor?

Consult a gastroenterologist if you experience:

• Persistent loss of appetite for more than a few days.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Severe nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.
• Difficulty swallowing or feeling full too quickly.
• Symptoms of jaundice (yellow skin/eyes) or persistent fatigue.

Diagnosis & Treatment

A thorough evaluation by a gastroenterologist may include:

• Blood Tests – To check for infections, liver/kidney function, and nutritional deficiencies.
• Imaging (Ultrasound, CT Scan, MRI) – To detect abnormalities in the digestive system.
• Endoscopy & Colonoscopy – To examine the stomach, esophagus, and intestines.
• Stool & Breath Tests – To detect infections, bacterial overgrowth, or digestive enzyme deficiencies.Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include dietary modifications, medications, lifestyle changes, or further medical intervention.