Definition: Anorexia is the medical term for "loss of appetite." It is not, however, to be confused with the term, "anorexia nervosa," which is a serious mental condition not associated with COPD.
Progressive weight loss in emphysema occurs because of a number of factors:
- Fatigue and shortness of breath which can interfere with meal preparation and consumption
- Increased phlegm which can alter the taste of food
- Flattening of the diaphragm (breathing muscle) which presses on the stomach causing a premature feeling of fullness
- Depression over having a chronic illness
- Side effects of medications such as nausea and indigestion.
Also Known As: Loss of appetite
