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Poor appetite is called anorexia. The patient may eat much less than normal. It can be the result of chemical changes caused by the disease, which may not be correctable, or other causes.
What to look for:
- Sore mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
- Frequent, mild nausea
- Constipation
- Indigestion
- Increased thirst
- Abdominal pain
- A feeling of fullness soon after beginning a meal
- A change in mood
What to do:
- Eat as much as desired and when desired.
- Eat less food more often.
- Eat favorite foods.
- Eat at the table with others.
- Exercise, if possible.
- Drink beverages between meals rather than with meals.
- Decrease stress at mealtime.
- Choose carbohydrates and high-protein options, such as fish, chicken, turkey, eggs, cheeses, milk, ice cream, tofu, nuts, peanut butter, yogurt, beans or peas.
- Eat food cold or at room temperature.
When to call hospice:
- If the patient has not eaten for a day or more
- If the patient's mouth is sore
- If swallowing is difficult
- If the patient has not urinated for an entire day
- If the patient has not had a bowel movement for two or more days
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