Loss of appetite, also known as anorexia, is a common symptom that can have many different causes and can be mild or severe. It should not be taken lightly, as it can be an early warning sign of serious underlying health problems.
A good appetite is considered a sign of health. So, when you don’t need to worry for many days, it’s normal to feel anxious. A decrease in appetite may also be due to an increase or decrease in your activity level, an important event in your life or an illness. For example, before an exciting or important event, a person’s appetite decreases or sleepiness begins.
It is temporary, and after the event, your appetite becomes normal. However, if you feel less hungry for a long time without any reason, it is cause for concern. Especially if it lasts for a long time, there may be an underlying reason behind your aversion to food.
The reasons behind reduced appetite can be as varied as buffet dishes. Here are some common culprits:
- Short-term cause: A simple cold, flu, or stomach bug can disrupt your internal signals, temporarily suppressing your desire to eat.
- Emotional Rollercoaster: Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly affect your appetite, often leading to less interest in food.
- Medical Conditions: Chronic diseases such as cancer, kidney disease, or even diabetes can affect digestion and metabolism, causing loss of appetite.
- Medicines: Some medicines may have side effects that suppress appetite, so if you are taking a new prescription, check with your doctor.
What Causes Loss of Appetite?
“Not feeling hungry is a common concern that many people face at some point in their lives, which often leads to temporary problems such as:
- Gastrointestinal challenges
Sudden hunger pangs can be caused by gastrointestinal problems. Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), gastritis and peptic ulcers can affect the digestive system, causing pain and loss of appetite. These cases need to be addressed promptly to prevent further complications.
- Thyroid malfunction
An underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, can contribute to low appetite. The thyroid gland’s important role in regulating metabolism means that any imbalance can result in various symptoms, including loss of appetite. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for the effective management of thyroid disorders.
- Mental well-being
A complex relationship between mental health and physical well-being is evident, with conditions such as depression, anxiety and stress manifesting in physical symptoms, including loss of appetite. Recognizing this relationship is important to address the root cause and receive appropriate support.
- Persistent infection
A chronic infection, such as tuberculosis or HIV/AIDS, can also cause a lack of appetite. The body’s immune response to these infections can disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system, emphasizing the need to promptly identify and treat the underlying infection.
ALSO READ | Headaches behind your eyes? Here’s what you need to know
- Beware of cancer
While caution is advised against premature conclusions, unexplained and prolonged loss of appetite can raise concerns about some cancers. Cancers affecting the digestive system, such as stomach or pancreatic cancer, can cause a loss of interest in food as an early symptom. Regular health checkups and screenings are important for the early detection and treatment of cancer.
Not feeling hungry can be a frustrating and worrying experience, but it’s important to focus on addressing the underlying cause rather than forcing yourself to eat. With a little patience, understanding and the right support, you can get your appetite back on track and enjoy the delicious journey of food again, whether it’s a gastrointestinal disorder, thyroid dysfunction, or mental health condition.
Above all, monitoring overall well-being and addressing frequent changes in appetite with a healthcare professional can contribute to early diagnosis and effective management of potential health risks.
Bonus tip: Keep a food diary to track your meals, hunger cues and overall health. This can be invaluable information for your doctor or dietitian to understand your unique situation.
