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 NamesLoss of appetite; Decreased appetite
ConsiderationsAny 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 CausesIncrease proteinand calorie intake by eating high-calorie, nutritious snacks or several small meals during the day. Liquid protein drinks may be helpful.
Family members should try to supply favorite foods to help stimulate the person's appetite.
Keep a record of what you eat and drink for 24 hours. This is called a diet history.
If a person with anorexia nervosa consistently exaggerates food intake, someone else should keep strict calorie and nutrient counts.
For loss of appetite caused by taking medications, ask your health care provider about changing the dosage or drug. Never stop taking medications without first talking to your health care provider.
See also: Weight management
Call your health care provider ifCall your health care provider if you are losing a lot of weight without trying.
What to expect at your health care provider's officeYour doctor will perform a physical exam and will check your height and weight. Your diet and medical history will be reviewed. The doctor wll ask questions about your decreased appetite, including:
Tests that may be done to determine the cause of a decreased appetite may include:
In cases of severe malnutrition, nutrients are given through a vein (intravenously). This may require a hospital stay.
A decreased appetite is when you have a reduced desire to eat. The medical term for a loss of appetite is anorexia.
Alternative NamesLoss of appetite; Decreased appetite; Anorexia
ConsiderationsAny 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.
Common CausesA decreased appetite is almost always seen among elderly adults, and no cause may be found. However, sadness, depression, grief, or anxiety are a common cause of weight loss that is not explained by other factors, especially among the elderly.
Cancer may also cause decreased appetite. You may lose weight without trying. Cancers that may cause you to lose your appetite include:
Other causes of decreased appetite include:
People with a cancer or a chronic illness will need to learn how to increase proteinand calorie intake by eating high-calorie, nutritious snacks or several small meals during the day. Liquid protein drinks may be helpful.
Family members should try to supply favorite foods to help stimulate the person's appetite.
Keep a record of what you eat and drink for 24 hours. This is called a diet history.
Call your health care provider ifCall your health care provider if you are losing a lot of weight without trying.
Encourage the person to seek medical help if their decreased appetite occurs along with other signs of depression, drug or alcohol abuse, or an eating disorder.
For loss of appetite caused by taking medications, ask your health care provider about changing the dosage or drug. Never stop taking medications without first talking to your health care provider.
What to expect at your health care provider's officeThe health care provider will perform a physical exam and will check the person's height and weight.
The health care provider will ask questions about the person's diet and medical history. Questions may include:
Tests that may be done to determine the cause of a decreased appetite include:
In cases of severe malnutrition, nutrients are given through a vein (intravenously). This may require a hospital stay.
ReferencesMason JB. Nutritional Assessment and Management of the Malnourished Patient. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease.9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2010:chap 4.
Stewart GD. Skipworth RJE, Fearon KCH. The Anorexia-Cachexia Syndrome. In: Walsh D, Caraceni AT, Fainsinger R, et al, eds. Palliative Medicine. 1st ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2008:chap 106.
Reviewed ByReview Date: 07/22/2010
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
Some patients with vasculitic neuropathy will experience decreased appetite
yeah it is
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== == Yes, some that have been used in patients with decreased appetite include Marinol and Periactin.
Stimulants (cocaine, meth, caffeine, etc.).
When children take medication for ADD, they may experience improved focus, impulse control, and behavior regulation. However, there may also be potential side effects such as appetite suppression, disrupted sleep, and mood changes. It is important for parents and caregivers to closely monitor children on ADD medication and consult with their healthcare provider regularly.
Nope. I've been fine. Just stayed the same, my friend lost weight, cause he said it decreased his appetite, but everybodys different. xx