What should you know about not feeling hungry at all?

Appetite may fall when the body is dealing with infection, nausea, pain, emotional strain or poor sleep. Digestive conditions such as Acid Reflux, Gastritis, Gastroenteritis, Food Poisoning or Gallstones can reduce interest in food, especially when eating brings discomfort. Heat Exhaustion may also cause nausea and reduced appetite. A reduced appetite alone does not identify one condition.

Notice whether you can drink, whether you are vomiting or having diarrhoea, and whether you have abdominal pain, fever, yellowing of the skin, dizziness or unusual tiredness. Recent medicines, alcohol use, travel, heat exposure and changes in mood are useful details.

Take regular small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink if you have been losing fluid. Try small portions of bland, nourishing foods when tolerated, such as soup, yoghurt, rice, toast or fruit. Avoid forcing a large meal, and limit alcohol. Keep a simple record of fluids, food, symptoms and medicines. Arrange a GP consultation if appetite remains low, you are losing weight without trying, or eating and drinking are becoming difficult.

Seek urgent medical help for confusion, fainting, severe weakness, severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, blood in vomit or stool, trouble breathing, or signs of serious dehydration such as very little urine. Prompt assessment is also sensible with yellow skin or eyes, persistent fever, or a new loss of appetite alongside significant weight loss.

Ask what may be affecting your appetite, whether your medicines need review, which fluids and foods are suitable, and whether you need an examination or tests. Mention when the change began and any associated digestive, mood or infection symptoms.