Decreased appetite
Decreased Appetite: Causes, Treatment, and More
Decreased appetite can be a symptom of a disease or an adverse effect of medical treatment. Poor appetite can lead to malnutrition and dehydration, both of which can have serious consequences on overall health.
Common causes of decreased appetite include stress, depression, illness, certain medications, and a low or unbalanced diet. Depending on the cause, treatments may include lifestyle changes, medications, and strategies to increase appetite.
What Causes decreased appetite?
Decreased appetite can be caused by a wide range of medical conditions, medical treatments, and lifestyle factors. Common causes of decreased appetite include:
- Stress
- Depression
- Illness
- Certain medications
- Low or unbalanced diet
Treatment of Decreased Appetite
Treatment for decreased appetite depends on the underlying cause. Depending on the cause, treatments may include lifestyle changes, medications, and strategies to increase appetite.
- Lifestyle changes – If stress, depression, or other emotional factors are influencing appetite, individuals may benefit from lifestyle changes such as techniques to reduce stress, proper nutrition, and regular exercise.
- Medications – For conditions like cancer or HIV, there are medications that can help induce appetite.
- Strategies to increase appetite – For cases of decreased appetite due to illness or medications, individuals can do things like eating small, frequent meals, drinking fluids between meals, avoiding foods with strong odors, and keeping a snack handy.
When to See a Doctor
If decreased appetite persists or is associated with other symptoms such as weight loss, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain, individuals should seek medical advice. Malnutrition or dehydration due to decreased appetite can have serious health consequences, and prompt medical attention is essential.