Anorexia (symptom)
Loss of appetite as a symptom, not a diagnosis.
Anorexia, as a symptom, refers to a loss of appetite. It is distinct from anorexia nervosa, which is a mental disorder. Anorexia can arise from numerous medical conditions, psychological factors, or environmental influences, and it is considered a symptom rather than a diagnosis. The term originates from Ancient Greek, meaning 'without appetite.'
- field
- Medicine
- known_for
- Loss of appetite as a symptom of various conditions
- etymology
- Ancient Greek: ανορεξία (ἀν-, 'without' + όρεξις, 'appetite')
- common_causes
- Over 80 listed, including cancer, depression, diabetes, and side effects of drugs
Quick Facts
- Specialty
- Gastroenterology, family medicine, internal medicine
- Symptoms
- Not wanting to eat, no hunger, dizziness, weakness
- Causes
- Achy stomach, gastroparesis, food poisoning
Facts from the source article.
Lore & Background
Anorexia is a symptom characterized by a decreased or absent desire to eat. It can manifest subtly, such as not feeling hungry, or more noticeably, such as nausea at the thought of food. Clinically significant anorexia leads to weight loss or muscle loss that is not intentional. The symptom occurs in humans and non-human animals, including cats, dogs, cattle, goats, and sheep, where it may be called inappetence.
Reader's Guide
The physiology of anorexia involves complex interactions between peripheral signals (taste, smell, gut hormones) and central neurotransmitters in the hypothalamus, including neuropeptide Y, leptin, ghrelin, insulin, serotonin, and orexins. Imbalances in these signals can cause loss of appetite. Common causes range from infections and chronic diseases to psychological stress and drug side effects. Complications include dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and sudden cardiac death due to acquired long QT syndrome. Refeeding syndrome is a potentially fatal risk when feeding resumes after prolonged starvation, requiring careful medical supervision. Management may involve orexigenic drugs.
Did You Know?
- Anorexia is a symptom, not a diagnosis, and is distinct from anorexia nervosa.
- The term comes from Ancient Greek: ανορεξία, meaning 'without appetite.'
- Anorexia can occur in non-human animals such as cats, dogs, cattle, goats, and sheep.
- Sudden cardiac death can result from anorexia due to electrolyte imbalances leading to acquired long QT syndrome.
More in Symptoms and signs: Endocrinology, nutrition, and metabolism 1-21
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