Symptom 8. Loss of Appetite and Unintended Weight Loss: The Metabolic Effects of Acute Kidney Disease
Loss of appetite and unintended weight loss are often overlooked but significant signs of acute kidney injury. While these symptoms may seem trivial compared to the others, they can have considerable health implications if ignored.
The loss of appetite in AKI can be traced back to multiple factors. One contributing factor is uremia – the accumulation of toxins in the blood that kidneys typically filter out. Uremic toxins can affect the gut’s normal functioning, leading to nausea, changes in taste, and ultimately, a decreased desire to eat.
Another reason for the loss of appetite is inflammation, a common occurrence in AKI. Inflammatory chemicals can alter metabolism and eating behaviors, reducing hunger and leading to a decreased food intake.
Furthermore, certain biochemical changes in AKI, like acid-base imbalances or elevated levels of certain hormones like leptin, can also contribute to the loss of appetite. These changes can directly impact the brain regions regulating hunger and satiety, leading to a reduced desire for food.
Unintended weight loss in AKI often follows the loss of appetite. With reduced food intake, the body might start to use stored fats and muscle for energy, leading to weight loss. This weight loss isn’t just loss of fat, but often involves loss of muscle mass, which can further worsen health outcomes.
In addition, symptoms like nausea and vomiting common in AKI can also contribute to weight loss. Persistent vomiting can lead to a loss of crucial nutrients from the body, further promoting weight loss and potentially leading to malnutrition.
It’s worth noting that these symptoms can be a double-edged sword. While they can help in early identification of AKI, they can also contribute to the disease’s progression if not properly managed. Hence, early recognition and management of these symptoms are crucial in the care of individuals with AKI. (8)
