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Appetite - decreased

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Appetite - decreased

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
Hypothyroidism
Medications and street drugs
- Chemotherapeutic agents
- Amphetamines
- Sympathomimetics including ephedrine
- Antibiotics
- Cough and cold preparations
- Codeine
- Morphine
- Demerol
- Digitalis

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