General Loss of Appetite
Chemotherapy causes a loss in appetite due to a number of side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, pain and diarrhea. Chemotherapy also causes a sore throat and dry mouth, which may make eating and swallowing difficult or painful. Long-term loss of appetite may result in significant weight loss and a reduction in muscle mass. This complication may interfere with treatment, decrease the body's ability to fight off infection, and cause general weakness that may trigger additional loss of appetite. A doctor or dietitian may be able to assist in creating a diet plan that will improve your appetite and correct any nutritional deficiencies.
Altered Taste Perception
Taste perception may be altered by chemotherapy treatment, especially when combined with radiation therapy. This change in taste is generally temporary and occurs due to changes in the taste buds on the tongue. Some chemotherapy patients complain of a constant metallic taste that makes eating unpleasant, while others claim foods are too sweet or too bitter. This change in taste perception often makes eating difficult, resulting in weight loss. Some chemotherapy patients notice that the expectation that foods may taste odd decreases their desire to eat even more than any actual changes in taste.
Nausea and Vomiting
Two of the most common side effects of chemotherapy are nausea and vomiting, both of which can have profound effects on appetite. Frequent vomiting makes eating impossible, while sporadic vomiting or nausea may result in a complete loss of appetite. When vomiting is severe, the lining of the stomach and esophagus may become irritated and inflamed. This creates a situation where future vomiting episodes become more likely as the stomach is unable to handle the intake of solid foods. Vomiting may also interfere with pain control by making it difficult to take or tolerate pain medications. Increased pain may also reduce appetite. Medications are available to treat the nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy, but they are not effective for all people.
Mouth and Throat Ulceration
Mouth ulcers are a frequent and painful side effect of chemotherapy, but this symptom typically lasts for only a few days to a week following treatment. However, malnutrition and overall poor health may increase the time needed for recovery. The symptom severity of mouth sores and ulcers caused by chemotherapy may range from mild discomfort to significant pain. Eating may become impossible, and the fear of pain associated with chewing and swallowing may result in loss of appetite and a reluctance to eat. Corticosteroids may be prescribed in severe cases, especially when appetite is affected to the point that malnutrition becomes a risk.
