What causes cancer cachexia?

Cachexia is more than ordinary weight loss or eating less. Signals from cancer and the body's immune response can change how protein, fat, and energy are handled. Muscle may be lost even when a person tries to eat, and tiredness or weakness can make daily activities harder.

Loss of appetite, early fullness, nausea, pain, mouth problems, swallowing difficulty, depression, or treatment side effects may reduce intake at the same time. Pancreatic cancer can be associated with cachexia, but the pattern and causes differ from person to person.

Tell your oncology team about reduced appetite, loose clothing, weakness, early fullness, taste changes, vomiting, diarrhoea, or difficulty chewing and swallowing. A dietitian can suggest practical foods, drinks, textures, and meal timing that fit your symptoms and treatment.

Ask whether pain, constipation, nausea, mouth soreness, mood changes, or treatment effects can be treated. Gentle activity suited to your strength may help preserve function, but stop if it causes dizziness, chest pain, or marked breathlessness. Do not rely on supplements or appetite products without checking their safety.

Contact your care team promptly if you cannot keep fluids down, are passing very little urine, become suddenly much weaker, choke or cough when swallowing, or have repeated vomiting or diarrhoea. Seek emergency help for fainting, severe breathing difficulty, confusion, or chest pain.

Ask what may be driving your appetite or strength changes, whether a dietitian or physiotherapist can help, and how to manage nausea, pain, constipation, or swallowing trouble. Ask which supplements, exercises, and warning signs are appropriate for you.