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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.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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