What Causes Loss Of Appetite?

Loss of appetite, or diminished desire to eat, happens occasionally to most people. Mild or temporary appetite loss is generally not cause for alarm. When the symptom persists or worsens, however, it may indicate a potentially serious underlying illness, such as hepatitis or depression. Since lost appetite is associated with numerous conditions, seek guidance from your doctor to determine whether a medical problem is at fault.

Infections

Infections such as pneumonia, hepatitis, HIV, kidney infection and the flu (influenza) may cause loss of appetite for more than several days. Since a healthy diet can help prevent infections and help your body fight illnesses once they've set in, loss of appetite can lead to harmful complications. According to the University of Illinois Medical Center, once infections are properly treated, often through antibiotics or anti-viral medications, a person's appetite generally resumes. In severe cases, loss of appetite persists along with the infection. If this is the case for you, discuss your appetite challenges with your doctor. He may recommend nutritional supplements or liquid meal replacements as a means of keep your nutrient intake up and your immune system strong. To prevent infections associated with lost appetite, consume a nutrient-rich diet, plentiful in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Aim for appropriate amounts of sleep and partake in physical activity regularly.

Late-Stage Anorexia

Anorexia, a serious eating disorder characterized by self-starvation and obsession with weight loss, may cause loss of appetite. The Greek word "anorexia" actually means "loss of appetite." However, loss of appetite is not an early or primary symptom of the disease, nor does it cause anorexia. According to the book, "Anorexia Nervosa: A Survival Guide," loss of appetite appears in late-stage anorexia as a consequence of long-term starvation. To reap diagnosis of anorexia, a person must maintain a body weight 15 percent below her medically-determined healthy weight range, demonstrate an intense fear of weight gain and exhibit distorted body image (an emaciated woman who deems herself "fat"). Women with anorexia also experience amenorrhea, or loss of her menstrual cycle. If you or a loved one exhibits symptoms of anorexia as well as lost appetite, seek medical guidance promptly, as anorexia can be life threatening.

Depression

Depression is a serious emotional disease that involves elongated bouts of depressive moods that detract from a person's usual life. According to the American Psychological Association, people with depression often experience changes in weight, eating habits and appetite. Though people's bodies react to depression differently, loss of appetite and resultant weight loss are common. Depression may stem from various causes, including genetic factors, childbirth (postpartum depression) and traumatic events. Regardless of the cause, depression is treatable. If you experience loss of appetite in addition to a serious case of "the blues," and can't seem to rectify either, seek guidance from a trusted doctor or therapist. Once depression is treated, symptoms such as loss of appetite generally alleviate.