Bloated stomach and no appetite: what should you know?

Bloating can make eating uncomfortable, while illness elsewhere in the body can reduce appetite. Gastroenteritis, influenza, and COVID-19 can present with reduced appetite alongside digestive or general symptoms. Gastritis, hepatitis A, or a peptic ulcer can also present with poor appetite and abdominal discomfort. Depression may affect appetite and digestion. Pancreatic cancer can present with appetite loss and digestive changes, but these symptoms are not specific and need context from an examination.

Take frequent sips of fluid and choose small, nourishing portions when you can tolerate them. Plain foods may be easier during nausea; avoid alcohol and foods that clearly worsen discomfort. Rest and monitor urine output, fever, vomiting, bowel changes, pain, and whether appetite returns. Review new medicines with a pharmacist or clinician rather than stopping prescribed treatment on your own.

Arrange a medical review if poor appetite persists, you are losing weight without trying, or bloating keeps returning. Seek urgent care for severe or localised abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, dehydration, confusion, faintness, blood in vomit or stool, black stools, yellow skin or eyes, or a swollen abdomen with inability to pass stool or gas.

Ask whether an infection, medicine, digestive condition, or mood change could explain the pattern and whether tests are needed. Tell the clinician when appetite changed, what you can drink, any weight change, and all medicines or supplements you use.