A decreased appetite is when your desire to eat is reduced. The medical term for a loss of appetite is anorexia.
Any illness can reduce appetite. If the illness is treatable, the appetite should return when the condition is cured.
Loss of appetite can cause weight loss.
A decreased appetite is almost always seen among elderly adults, and no physical cause may be found. But emotions such as sadness, depression, or grief can lead to a loss of appetite.
Cancer can 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 cancer or a chronic illness need to increase their protein and 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 if you are losing a lot of weight without trying.
Seek medical help if 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. Do not stop taking medications without first talking to your health care provider.
The health care provider will perform a physical exam and will check your height and weight.
The health care provider will ask about diet and medical history. Questions may include:
Tests may be done to determine the cause of decreased appetite. These may include imaging tests, such as x-ray or ultrasound. Blood and urine tests may also be ordered.
In cases of severe malnutrition, nutrients are given through a vein (intravenously). This may require a hospital stay.
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director and Director of Didactic Curriculum, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.