Appetite - decreased

Alternative names:

anorexia; decreased appetite; loss of appetite; poor appetite

Definition:

A lack of appetite even though there is a physical need for food.

Considerations:

Any illness can adversely affect a previously hearty appetite. If the disease is curable, the appetite will return when the disease is cured.

Loss of appetite can cause unintentional weight loss.

Common causes:

• emotional upset, nervousness, loneliness, boredom, tension, anxiety, loss of a job, death in the family, problems in school, and depression
• anorexia nervosa
• loss of appetite at mealtime from continual "snacking" at other times
• fatigue
• influenza
• acute infection
• drugs
  • amphetamines
  • chemotherapeutic agents
  • sympathomimetics including ephedrine
  • antibiotics
  • cough and cold preparations
  • codeine
  • morphine
  • Demerol
  • digitalis

Note: There may be other causes of loss of appetite. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for loss of appetite, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.