Feeling cold and loss of appetite: what it can mean

Feeling cold with loss of appetite can accompany infection, digestive illness or low mood, so persistent symptoms deserve review. Eating less can also leave you low in energy and more sensitive to cold.

Influenza or COVID-19 may reduce appetite alongside aches, tiredness, cough or throat symptoms. Gastroenteritis can bring nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and fluid loss. Gastritis or a peptic ulcer may cause upper-abdominal discomfort, nausea or pain related to meals. Hepatitis A can cause marked tiredness, nausea and sometimes yellowing of the skin or eyes. Depression may reduce interest in food and affect sleep, motivation and mood. Pancreatic cancer is less common but needs medical assessment when appetite loss persists with ongoing abdominal or back pain, jaundice or unexplained weight change. The combination alone cannot establish a diagnosis.

Take small, frequent sips of water or an oral rehydration drink if vomiting or diarrhoea is present. Choose small portions of familiar, nourishing foods and avoid alcohol while you feel unwell. Keep a note of meals, fluids, pain, bowel symptoms and temperature. Arrange a clinician review if appetite remains low, you struggle to drink, or symptoms interfere with daily activities. Do not start appetite stimulants or antibiotics without advice.

Seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, blood in vomit or stool, black stools, confusion, fainting, severe dehydration, chest pain, or yellow skin with worsening illness. Prompt assessment is appropriate for persistent vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, ongoing fever, or progressive weight loss. If low appetite occurs with hopelessness or thoughts of self-harm, seek immediate mental-health support or emergency help.

Could my symptoms reflect infection, a digestive problem, medication effects or low mood? Do I need tests for dehydration, anaemia or liver problems? What foods and fluids are suitable while my appetite is reduced?