What should you know about IBS loss of appetite?

Poor appetite may happen with nausea, abdominal discomfort, constipation, diarrhoea, fever, stress, or low mood. Gastroenteritis, influenza, COVID-19, gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, and hepatitis A can reduce appetite during illness. Depression can affect interest in food as well. Pancreatic cancer is a less common but important condition that can be associated with appetite loss, particularly when it occurs with persistent upper-abdominal or back pain, jaundice, or unexplained weight loss. Appetite loss alone does not identify its cause.

Choose small, frequent meals and include easy-to-tolerate foods with protein and energy. Sip fluids regularly, especially if vomiting or diarrhoea is present. Notice whether pain, nausea, a new medicine, or a particular food is stopping you from eating, and record this for your clinician. Avoid forcing large meals. A doctor can check hydration, review medicines, examine you, and decide whether blood tests or other investigations are needed.

Book a medical review if appetite loss lasts, keeps returning, or is accompanied by unplanned weight loss, ongoing pain, fever, vomiting, or a change in bowel habits. Seek urgent care if you cannot keep fluids down, pass very little urine, become confused or faint, vomit blood, have black stools, or develop yellow skin or eyes.

Ask what symptoms make an infection, stomach problem, mood disorder, or another cause more likely. Ask whether your medicines need review, how to protect hydration and nutrition, and which warning signs should bring you back sooner.