Symptom 6: Poor Appetite and Weight Loss – The Silent Struggle
Poor appetite and weight loss are common symptoms in children with cystinosis. However, these symptoms often go unnoticed until a noticeable change occurs in the child’s weight or eating habits.
Cystinosis can lead to poor appetite due to several reasons. Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is a common cause, as discussed earlier. Similarly, the excessive thirst and urination caused by cystinosis can also lead to a decreased appetite.
Furthermore, cystinosis can lead to malnutrition by affecting the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, further contributing to weight loss. This, coupled with the loss of essential nutrients through excessive urination, can lead to a significant decline in a child’s weight and overall growth.
Poor appetite and weight loss are significant symptoms of cystinosis that can affect a child’s growth and development. It is crucial to monitor these symptoms closely and intervene early to prevent long-term health complications. (6)
