Does COVID-19 cause loss of appetite?

During COVID-19, the immune response and changes in smell or taste can reduce interest in food. Sore throat, nausea, diarrhoea, and fatigue may also make eating uncomfortable. Appetite loss can happen with many other illnesses and stresses, so it does not by itself identify COVID-19 or show how severe the infection is.

Take frequent small sips of water or another tolerated drink. Try small meals and snacks with energy and protein, choosing soft foods if your throat is sore. Cool or bland foods may be easier when smells are unpleasant. Do not force a large meal; prioritise hydration and return gradually to your usual intake. Ask a pharmacist or clinician about suitable oral rehydration products if vomiting or diarrhoea is limiting fluids.

Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, confusion, fainting, or inability to swallow fluids. Contact a clinician promptly if you are urinating much less than usual, feel dizzy when standing, keep vomiting, or cannot maintain drinking. Seek earlier advice if you are pregnant, frail, living with diabetes, or have another condition affected by poor intake.

Ask which drinks and foods are appropriate for you, how to manage regular medicines when eating less, whether you need testing, and what signs of dehydration should prompt a call.