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Appetite - decreased - Overview

Alternative Names

Loss of appetite; Decreased appetite

Definition of Appetite - decreased:

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.

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)

Reviewed last on: 7/22/2008
Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, 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.

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