Anorexia

Loss of appetite is a common and challenging symptom for cancer patients.  This is known as anorexia.

 

Who is affected by anorexia?

Patients may experience anorexia from chemotherapy, radiation therapy or surgery.  Those who have surgery of the digestive system or head and neck area are especially vulnerable.  Some chemotherapy drugs such as cisplatin, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, fluorouracil, paclixatex or vincristine may cause patients to experience a bitter or metallic taste, which may also decrease desire to eat.

 

What causes anorexia?

Anorexia can affect a patient's over all wellbeing.  Treatment may affect a patient's desire to eat.  Some side effects include, nausea and vomiting, mouth sores, pain, fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, or changes in taste.

 

When do patients become anorexic?

Patients experience anorexia usually on treatment days or through out the duration of treatment.  Appetite usually returns within 1 or 2 weeks after treatment ends.  However, anorexia may continue for longer periods of time for some patients.  Each individual case may experience different durations of appetite loss.

 

Managing Anorexia

Treating the symptoms that cause anorexia can greatly help return a patient's appetite.  Treatment of nausea and mouth sores may help. Pain medication 30 to 60 minutes before eating may improve appetite.  It is important for cancer patients to minimize weight loss to eat properly to ensure adequate nutrition.  Soft foods and beverages that are high in calories and nutrition may be a good option for some patients.  A dietician or nutritionist may also be helpful in selecting easy to eat foods, which provide proper nutrition.

Although cancer treatment can be draining it is important for patients to be as physical as possible.  Exercise and physical activity stimulates appetite.  Also, appetite-enhancing drugs are also available.  Some of these drugs include acetate (Megace), corticosteroids (dexamethasone), and marijuana.  However, these drugs have potential side effects, which a physician should assess before prescribing for each individual person.

Anorexia should be addressed as early as possible.  One should speak to his or her doctor after losing 5 pounds or more due to cancer treatments.  Adequate nutrition is essential for sustaining quality of life and increasing chances of survival.