Symptom 8: Loss of Appetite
Eating is not just a routine; it’s a pleasure, a necessity. However, individuals with NSHL might find their once voracious appetite waning. This isn’t just about skipping a meal here and there. It’s a consistent reduction in the desire to eat, even when confronted with favorite foods.
The reasons are multifaceted. The body, in its bid to combat the lymphoma, might divert energy and focus, leading to a diminished appetite. Coupled with other symptoms like fevers or fatigue, the very act of eating might seem exhausting.
It’s not uncommon for this loss of appetite to also affect one’s sense of taste. Foods might seem bland, or flavors might feel intensified, often in an unpleasant manner. Over time, this can lead to unintentional weight loss, further complicating health.
Awareness is pivotal. Noticing a sustained lack of interest in food, especially when combined with other symptoms, should sound the alarm bells. It’s essential to understand the roots of such a shift and not merely attribute it to mood or transient factors. (8)
