Loss of Appetite – Its Meaning In Gastroenterology Introduction Loss of appetite is something most individuals experience every once in a while, and is usually not a cause for concern. But if it lingers for some time, or becomes a regular event, then it signals something wrong in the body. Loss of appetite is known as ‘anorexia’ in gastroenterology, not to be confused with ‘anorexia nervosa’ which is an eating disorder concerning psychology and psychiatry.
Loss of appetite simply means that hunger is absent in an individual. A person with anorexia has no desire to eat. In comparison, a person suffering from ‘anorexia nervosa’ doesn’t eat even when they feel hungry because of over-concern for weight gain.
What Does Loss Of Appetite Mean? Gastroenterologists in Gurgaon, at one of the best hospital for gastroenterology in the country, say that loss of appetite for a brief period of time usually accompanies almost all sudden or acute illnesses. Whereas, long lasting bouts of loss of appetite usually mean that a person has a serious underlying disorder such as cancer, AIDS, chronic lung disease, severe heart disease, or kidney or liver failure. Any neurological disorder that affects the part of the brain where appetite is regulated can cause loss of appetite as well. Loss of appetite is also common among people who are dying, although one must not jump to conclusions without consulting a proper medical specialist first.
What To Do If You Experience Loss Of Appetite? First and foremost, as mentioned above, one must consult a doctor, preferably a gastroenterologist. The doctor will thoroughly evaluate an individual’s symptoms and perform a complete physical examination. These activities often suggest a cause and help the doctor decide which tests are needed. Steps that can help increase a person’s desire to eat include providing favourite foods, a flexible meal schedule, and, if the person desires, a small amount of an alcoholic beverage served 30 minutes before meals.