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Loss of appietite
Dear Dr
She is my mother, and she had both knees operated as on 7 feb 2025 at livasa Hospital chandigarh. From that day onwards, she lost her appetite, which remains the same even today, and that day she had a slight mind displacement but
now
She is feeling better than before because she is taking Depsonil and sleep is also fine . All the tests have been done but no such disease has been detected.
Sir how is it possible that one does not feel hungry for six months
Is this a problem of the mind?
If yes then please tell me how this happens and which doctor will treat it, wherever that doctor I will get the check up done. Pl help me .
Answers (4)
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Yes, this could very well be a problem of the mind- specifically depression or age-related neuropsychiatric changes. After surgery and hospitalization, especially in elderly patients, it is not uncommon to experience postoperative depression, cognitive slowing, and loss of appetite. These are often overlooked as symptoms of aging, but they are treatable.
Your mother has been diagnosed with morbid depression, and is already on Depsonil, which is a tricyclic antidepressant. The improvement in sleep suggests that the medication is working. However, complete recovery- especially for appetite- can take weeks to months, and may require additional psychiatric support and nutritional rehabilitation.
Next Steps
1. Consult a psychiatrist- preferably a geriatric psychiatrist if available.
2. Consider repeating a Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and a Mini-Mental Status Examination (MMSE) to assess mental health and cognition.
3. Nutritional therapy: Consultation with a clinical dietician for protein-calorie supplementation.
4. Family members should encourage positive routines, social interaction, and mild physical activity, which all support mental and appetite recovery.
5. Ensure regular follow-ups with the prescribing psychiatrist to adjust medication if appetite does not improve.
Health Tips
i) Do not stop Depsonil suddenly. It must be tapered under medical supervision.
ii) Appetite issues may linger longer than mood symptoms—don't lose hope; this is common in elderly patients recovering from major illness.
iii) Watch for side effects such as dizziness or constipation from the medications.
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I can help you better with further treatment course needed. U can connect me via whatsapp on seven zero eight two zero two two zero six two.
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As per my opinion, you must consult a neurologist with all your medical records of your mother's current treatment and all previous records and investigations. It may require CT scan also and more detailed history taking regarding symptoms. Loss of appetite may be a feature of depression, dementia or other various conditions.So do lose hope, detailed evaluation is needed, once a neurologist assesses the case and no abnormalities detected on CT, may refer to Psychiatrist for opinion
Next Steps
continue current medications and consult a neurologist
Health Tips
keep all records and ask query with your doctor
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Hi.. will need further history regarding the same to advise appropriately. Consult online for further evaluation and management
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.