|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Definition: | This symptom describes a decreased or lack of appetite despite basic caloric needs.
|
| Alternative Names: | Loss of appetite; Decreased appetite
|
| Considerations: | Any illness can adversely affect a previously hearty appetite. If the disease is treatable, the appetite should return when the disease is cured.
Loss of appetite can cause unintentional weight loss.
|
| Common Causes: | - Emotional upset, nervousness, loneliness, boredom, tension, anxiety, bereavement, and depression
- Anorexia nervosa
- Acute and chronic infections
- HIV
- Pregnancy (first trimester)
- Cancer
- Hyperthyroidism
- Medications and street drugs
- Chemotherapeutic agents
- Amphetamines
- Sympathomimetics including ephedrine
- Antibiotics
- Cough and cold preparations
- Codeine
- Morphine
- Demerol
- Digitalis
|
|
|
Review Date: 5/23/2003
Reviewed By: David Webner, M.D., Department of Family Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
|
|
