Failure to thrive in adults

This phrase describes a pattern rather than one specific illness. Contributors can include infection, pain, digestive disease, trouble swallowing, medication effects, depression, memory problems, dental difficulties, or limited access to suitable food. Reduced activity and muscle loss may then make everyday tasks harder. The clinician will consider how quickly the change occurred, existing conditions, mood, medicines, eating and drinking, and the person’s ability to manage at home.

Book a medical appointment and take a complete medication list, recent weight history if available, and examples of a typical day’s food and fluid intake. Mention falls, fatigue, bowel changes, pain, low mood, and swallowing problems. Support regular meals, fluids, and gentle activity when safe, but avoid unplanned supplements until a clinician checks for causes and interactions. A review may include an examination, medication changes, tests, or support from nutrition and social-care services.

Seek urgent help for confusion, fainting, severe weakness, chest pain, breathing difficulty, inability to swallow fluids, signs of serious dehydration, or sudden deterioration. Arrange prompt review for ongoing unintentional weight loss, repeated falls, persistent vomiting, blood in stool, or a new inability to manage basic activities.

Ask what changes are most concerning, whether medicines or swallowing need review, which tests may help, and what support can make eating and daily care safer.