Elderly people with a loss of appetite is a common symptom. It is a problem that makes us, their children, hold our heads. And a loss of appetite can also have an impact on the health of the elderly because it is a symptom that causes the elderly to not eat enough to meet the body’s needs.
As the elderly age, there are many physical changes that result in a decrease in food intake, such as muscle problems or less efficient chewing of food. The health of the teeth and gums is not strong, with symptoms of chipped, broken teeth, tooth decay, receding gums, loose dentures, and pain when chewing, so they avoid eating.
Meanwhile, some people have dry saliva, which makes chewing food feel rough in the throat because there is less moisture in the mouth. As a result, the elderly have difficulty swallowing and may choke on food and water frequently until they are tired of eating and having such symptoms again. The taste buds do not work well, making food not as delicious as before, even though the food used to be very popular.
Some people have problems with the digestive system working slowly, having less digestive juices in the stomach, contracting and relaxing the stomach and intestines not working properly, digesting food poorly, digesting with difficulty, causing constipation, causing the elderly to eat less because they feel full in the stomach.
Chronic illnesses and side effects of some medications can also cause loss of appetite, such as some medications that are stimulants that cause loss of appetite, such as blood pressure medications, diabetes medications that cause flatulence, bloating, loss of appetite, or medications that treat cancer, heart disease, kidney disease, ทางเข้า ufabet, etc.
The disadvantages of loss of appetite and inadequate food intake
- Heart problems. Anorexia can lead to heart problems, such as low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and even heart failure.
- Malnutrition. Inadequate nutrition can lead to malnutrition, which can lead to weakness, fatigue, and a weakened immune system.
- Digestive problems. Not getting enough food can lead to digestive problems, such as constipation or diarrhea.
- Weight loss. Anorexia can lead to significant weight loss, which can lead to muscle loss, weak bones, and increased risk of fractures.
- Mental health problems. Anorexia can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems.
While mental health problems, stress, depression, or feeling discouraged from not getting attention from family members, having to eat alone are another reason that causes the elderly to lose their appetite and eat less.