Loss of appetite

[Kathy]

Mum's appetite has gone from being really good to being virtually non-existant in the space of approx 10 days. We have to really encourage her and , more often than not these days, actually feed her to get her to eat more than a few mouthfuls. Has anyone else experienced this? If so, did you find anything that helped?

Thanks

Kathy

[kay1]

When Frank was not interested in his food the doctor prescribed "Ensure" drinks for him, they contain all vitamins etc, I think they are widely used for people that have no appetite.

x

[hazelb]

Hi Kathy....my husband Frank has lost a lot of weight since he's had PSP. He used to be almost 14st but is now just under 11st. The greatest loss was noticed a few months ago by everyone who saw him, even though I was giving him Complan as well as trying to give him ordinary food. Because it takes so long for him to chew then swallow he gets fed up & gives up. Our S.A.L.T got the Dietician to visit who has put him on a Stage 3, soft food diet supplemented by Fortijuice & Fortisip drinks which are in lots of flavours. He quite likes them & has at least 2 a day. I weighed him this morning, a month after the last weigh-in, & he's stayed the same weight. I'm delighted.

I would suggest you have a word with your S.A.L.T if you have one or contact your GP.

Good luck, take care & try to keep smiling. Love Hazel B xx

[Kathy]

Thanks for the helpful suggestions Kay and Hazel!

Love and hugs

Kathy

[PSPA_KatH]

Hi Kathy

In addition to the good advice that has already been given can I add that fatigue becomes a big factor in ability and desire to eat. So it is better to give small portions more frequently -it might also help to add a calorie supplement like Calogen to food. It is invisible and tasteless when mixed in but adds vital calories without adding bulk. Please ask your GP for a referal to the Speech and Language therapist and the Dietician for for more indiviually tailored advice regarding your mums situation as it is very important that she receives the correct level of nutrition and hydration for her.

[salman]

my dad has been going through loss of appetite. says he doesn't feel hungry. though he is open to being fed -- he is now on a puree (blended) food diet due to the difficulties he has swallowing.