What should you know about prolonged loss of appetite?

Loss of appetite means food feels less appealing or hunger is reduced. It can accompany infections such as influenza, COVID-19, gastroenteritis, or hepatitis A. Nausea, abdominal pain, gastritis, and a peptic ulcer may make eating uncomfortable. Depression, stress, altered taste, dental problems, medication effects, and dehydration can also reduce intake.

A symptom does not identify one diagnosis. Some illnesses affecting digestion or other organs can also reduce appetite, particularly when there is persistent fatigue, pain, nausea, or a change in weight. The pattern, associated symptoms, and your usual health guide the assessment.

Arrange a review if poor appetite continues or you are struggling to maintain food and fluids. Try small, frequent portions, nourishing foods you tolerate, and regular sips of water. Treat nausea, mouth discomfort, or pain as directed rather than forcing large meals. Keep a simple record of intake, symptoms, medicines, and any weight change, and do not start supplements as a substitute for finding the cause.

Seek urgent care for inability to keep fluids down, signs of dehydration, severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, black stools, yellowing of the skin or eyes, confusion, fainting, or marked weakness. Prompt assessment is needed for ongoing appetite loss with persistent vomiting, fever, pain, or unplanned weight loss.

Ask whether an infection, digestive condition, mood change, or medicine could explain the pattern; which examinations or blood tests are appropriate; and how to protect nutrition while the cause is investigated.